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THE 


PRISON  BARD: 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS, 


BY 


GEORGE    TH031PSON. 

FOK   FOUK    YEARS   AND    ELEVEN   MONTHS    A  PRISONER    IN   MIS 
SOURI,  FOR  ATTEMPTING  TO  AID  SOME  SLAVES  TO  LIBERTY. 


WRITTEN  IN  PRISON. 


Come  ye  who  love  the  Saviour's  name 
And  joy  His  praise  to  swell, 

Attend,  while  I  His  grace  proclaim, 
In  this  our  hallowed  cell. 


HARTFORD: 

PRINTED    BY   WILLIAM    H.    BURLEIGH. 

1848. 


LOAN  STACK 


l/^ 

AWr/1 


PREFACE. 


I  HAVE  written  a  book,  giving  an  account  of  the  im 
prisonment  of  Alanson  Work,  James  E.  Burr  and  George 
Thompson,  in  which  are  a  few  extracts  from  the  contents 
of  this  work  ;  but  I  am  advised  to  send  forth  to  the  public 
the  whole  of  my  prison  poems.  With  the  belief  that 
many  of  them  will  be  read  with  interest,  and  with  the 
hope  they  may  do  good,  by  stirring  up  to  more  faithful 
ness  some  slothful  Christian  —  by  encouraging  the  faith 
ful  —  by  confirming  the  wavering  —  cheering  the  disconso 
late  —  binding  up  the  broken-hearted,  and  by  inducing 
the  reader  to  "  seek  first  the  kingdom  of  God  and  its 
righteousness,"  I  have  concluded  to  prepare  them  for 
publication. 

That  there  will  be  found  in  them  any  sublimity  of 
thought  —  any  beauty  of  expression  —  any  peculiarly  strik 
ing  ideas  —  or  that  any  poetic  genius  is  manifested,  I  do 
not  pretend.  But  that  they  exhibit  the  heart  of  a  pris 
oner  —  the  feelings  of  one  suffering  very  unjustly,  and  the 
power  of  RELIGION  to  cheer,  and  support,  and  fill  with 
"  joy  unspeakable,"  its  possessor,  in  the  most  afflictive  and 
trying  circumstances  on  earth,  I  do  pretend. 

They  were  composed,  at  various  times,  during  a  space 
of  nearly  five  years,  while  pursuing  my  daily  toils  within 


110 


IT.  PREFACE. 

the  confines  of  the  slaveholders'  prison.  Perhaps  they 
will  give  the  reader  a  more  distinct  view  of  my  inward 
soul,  amid  my  trials  and  sufferings,  than  the  book  pre 
viously  mentioned,  as  they  are  my  private  meditations. 

I  arranged  them  in  the  form  of  poetry  for  the  amuse 
ment,  improvement  and  profit  of  myself,  as  also  for  the 
profit  of  others  who  might  read  them.  It  was  my  prac 
tice  to  sing  everything  as  I  composed  it,  for  two  reasons — 
first,  that  I  might  the  more  readily  commit  the  verses  to 
memory — second,  to  be  sure  they  were  measured  and 
accented  properly.  And  the  singing  of  some  of  the 
pieces,  while  at  my  work,  when  tempted,  tried,  disconso 
late  or  joyful,  has  been  a  source  of  great  comfort  to  my 
soul. 

That  they  may  prove  as  great  a  blessing  to  the  reader, 
as  did  their  composition  to  the  suffering  prisoner,  is  the  de 
sire  of  the  Author,  GEORGE  THOMPSON. 
Oberhn,  Dec.  15,  1847. 


NOTE. — The  arrangement   Avill  be  the  order  in  which  they 
were  composed. 


WHY    IN    PI  SON? 

In  the  month  of  July,  1841,  I  was  thrust  into  Palmyra  .jail, 
where  I  remained  seventy-nine  days.  While  there^  a  sister  in 
Christ  asked  me  the  question,  "  Why  are  you  in  that  prison?" 
which  drew  forth  the  following : 

"  Ix  prison  !  ah,  why  is  tins,  my  brother  dear  ? 
I  was  amazed  and  shocked,  such  news  to  hear. 
What  hast  thou  done  ? — thy  Saviour  disobeyed, 
That  thou  art  thus  in  chains  and  prison  laid  ?" 

Hark,  sister,  while  to  thee  the  cause  I  tell, 
Why  I  was  bound,  and  why  now  in  this  cell ; 
Why  witnesses,  who  're  false,  are  'gainst  me  sworn, 
And  cruel  men  with  rage  and  malice  burn : — 

A  man  by  thieves  was  met  upon  his  way, 
llobbed,  bruised  and  welt'ring  in  his  gore  he  lay  ; 
Sad,  sad,  indeed,  the  state  this  man  was  'in, 
No  one  to  help  or  take  him  to  an  inn. 

A  Levite  passing  where  the  sufferer  lay, 
Stopped  not  to  pity — hastened  on  his  way. 
A  Priest  along  the  same  way  chanced  to  go, 
He  looked,  but  left  the  sufferer  to  his  woe. 


6        POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

At  length  one  came  who  on  him  looked  and  felt, 
Poured  oil  and  wine,  as  by  his  side  he  knelt ; 
On  his  own  beast  he  placed  the  man,  relieved, 
Conveyed  him  to  an  inn,  nor  pay  received. 

"  (70,  do  tlwu  likewise"  saith  my  glorious  King, 
"  Relieve  the  poor,  and  out  of  trouble  bring  ; 
Where'er  thou  find  him,  lend  a  helping  hand, 
And  aid  him  on  his  way  to  Freedom's  land  !" 

In  deep  distress  a  poor  man  thus  I  found, 

And  offered  freely  to  bind  up  his  wound  ; 

The  Priest  and  Levite  scorned  and  passed  him  by  ; 

The  neighbors  heeded  not  his  mournful  cry. 

Knocked  down  and  robbed  of  all,  he  long  had  lain, 
By  cruel  men  oppressed  and  almost  slain  ; 
With  torturing  stripes  his  back  was  deeply  gashed, 
Which  oft,  through  spite  and  malice,  had  been  lashed. 

Thus,  groaning,  welt'ring  and  despised  by  man, 

I  heard  him  loudly  call,  "  Help  if  you  can ; 

To  be  delivered  from  this  state  I  long, 

And  placed  where  I  may  sing  sweet  Freedom's  song." 

I  listened,  while  he  told  his  tale  of  grief, 
And  longed  to  find  some  way  for  his  relief; 
My  heart  with  tender  sympathy  was  moved, 
And  my  poor  neighbor  as  myself  I  loved. 

I  tried  to  comfort  him,  and  poured  in  oil ; 
I  told  him  of  Victoria's  happy  soil. 
"  I'd  like  to  go"  said  he,  "  but  here  I  'm  bound, 
How  can  I  reach  that  distant,  happy  ground  ?'* 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

"  I'  11  gladly  help  you,  neighbor,  on  your  way  ; 
We  '11  carry  you  by  night  and  hide  by  day." 
"  O  !  this  is  good  !  't  is  good !  't  is  GOOD  !"  he  cried, 
"  I  '11  go  with  you  and  with  you  safely  ride." 

While  thus  engaged  a  dreadful  voice  I  heard, 
Which  threatened  death,  if  from  the  place  I  stirred  ! 
Amazed  was  I — my  hands  were  quickly  tied, 
While  hardened  robbers  stood  on  either  side ! 

Followed  by  fiendish  spirits,  black  and  white, 
With  hellish  rage  they  vented  out  their  spite  ; 
While  hundreds  round  us  rushed  to  gaze  and  rail, 
They  thrust  and  locked  me  fast  within  this  jail ! 

Such,  sister,  is  the  cause  why  I  am  here — 
Such  why  my  voice  you  can  no  longer  hear. 
Did  I,  in  this,  do  wrong,  or  sin  commit, 
Because  I  wished  this  man  to  benefit  ? 

My  blessed  Saviour  did  I  disobey, 

When  from  this  man  I  crossed  not  o'er  the  way  ? 

Because  I  tried  the  sufferer  to  relieve, 

Did  I,  by  doing  this,  the  Spirit  grieve  ? 

Ah,  no  !  the  dove  is  still  within  my  breast, 
And  'midst  the  raging  tempest  gives  me  rest ; 
The  Saviour  smiles,  and  all  within  is  peace  ; 
The  storm  and  tumult  He  will  cause  to  cease. 

"  Fear  not,"  He  saya  to  me  ;  "  keep  courage  good, 
I  will  be  with  thee  through  the  fire  and  flood ; 
You  shall  not  want — I'll  be  to  you  a  friend, 
And  all  that's  needful  I  will  surely  send." 


8  POEMS    ON    VAKIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Blest  Saviour,  in  Thy  word  I  will  confide, 
And  'neath  the  shadow  of  Thy  wing  abide. 
Now  let  the  tempests  howl  and  hell  engage, 
Secure  and  safe  am  I  from  all  their  rage. 

Come  life  or  death — come  sorrow,  ease,  or  pain- 
In  Him  I  '11  trust  and  glory  in  His  name. 
"  All  things  shall  work  together  for  the  best," 
And  soon  I  '11  with  my  glorious  Jesus  rest. 


MY     BIBLE. 


I  had,  in  jail,  my  third  volume  of  the  Comprehensive  Com 
mentary,  on  a  blank  leaf  of  which  I  wrote : 

Dear  Bible,  I  love  thee — O  yes  that  I  do  ; 
Thy  words  yield  me  comfort  and  happiness  true ; 
They  check  all  my  doubts — yea,  they  quell  all  my  fears, 
In  every  condition  a  promise  appears. 

"  The  Lord  is  my  shepherd,"  no  want  shall  I  know, 
I  lie  in  green  pastures  where  still  waters  flow; 
"  The  Lord  is  my  light,  my  salvation  and  song, 
The  strength  of  my  life,"  who  can  then  do  me  wrong  ? 

"  The  Lord  is  my  Fortress,  Deliverer  and  Rock," 
Let  arrows  fly  thickly  and  enemies  mock ; 
"  My  Horn  of  Salvation,  my  Shield  and  my  Tower," 
I  '11  trust  to  His  wisdom,  His  love  and  his  power. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  ^ 

"  My  Strong  Habitation,"  to  which  I  retire 
For  safety  from  foes  who  against  me  conspire ; 
"  My  Redeemer,"  who  suffered  to  save  me  from  sin  ; 
"  My  Captain,"  and  with  him  the  day  I  shall  win. 

"  The  Lord  is  my  Father,  my  Surety  and  King," 
Through  every  affliction  and  trouble  He  '11  bring ; 
His  angels  around  me  encamp  to  defend, 
And  all  needed  help  He  will  certainly  send. 

"  Emanuel"  is  with  me — whom  then  shall  I  fear  ? 
To  all  who  call  on  Him  He  ever  is  near ; 
"  He  '11  strengthen  me,  help  me  and  cause  me  to  stand, 
Upheld  by  His  faithful,  omnipotent  hand." 

If  troubles  draw  near  them,  His  servants  He'll  hide, 
"  His  Pavilion"   is  strong,  where  they  bafely  abide  ; 
Though  earth  be  removed  and  the  mountains  depart, 
He  still  will  protect  them  and  strengthen  their  heart 

"  The  Lord  is  my  Portion,  my  Shield  and  my  Sun," 
With  grace  and  bright  glory  He  '11  crown  me  when  done ; 
"  No  good"  here  on  earth  will  He  ever  withhold 
From  sheep  of  His  pasture,  the  lambs  of  His  fold. 

The  weakly  and  sickly  He  '11  take  in  his  arms, 
To  feed  and  protect  them  from  all  that  alarms ; 
Their  strength  He  '11  renew  and  will  teach  them  to  go 
Where  waters  of  life  do  abundantly  flow. 

Should  dangers  arise  and  dark  clouds  gather  round  ; 
Should  friends  all  forsake  and  no  helper  be  found  ; 
Should  vile  men  reproach  me,  blaspheme  and  menace; 
Should  death,  in  forms  frightful,  e'en  stare  in  my  face — 

1  * 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

"  Fear  not,"  says  my  Saviour,  "  I'm  with  thee  to  bless, 
And  sanctify  to  thee  thy  deepest  distress  ; 
Fear  not,  I  am  with  thee,  O,  be  not  dismayed, 
For  I  am  thy  God  and  will  still  give  thee  aiJ. 

"  When  through  fiery  trials  I  call  the  to  go, 
No  evil  shall  touch  thee,  I  wish  thee  to  know ; 
The  flame  shall  not  hurt  thee — I  only  design 
Thy  dross  to  consume  and  thy  gold  to  refine. 

"  Forget  thee,  I  will  not,  I  cannot  forget — 
The  palms  of  my  hands  do  Thy  image  reflect ; 
Lest  any  should  hurt  thee,  I  '11  watch  day  and  night — 
Thy  peace  shall  be  perfect  and  great  thy  delight." 

"  The  Lord  is  my  Keeper  " — He  slumbers  nor  sleeps — 
"  The  Lord  shall  preserve  me  " — my  spirit  he  keeps — 
With  joy  I  commit  me  to  His  faithful  care, 
Come  life  or  come  death,  His  rich  glory  I'll  share. 

Farewell,  then,  vain  world,  your  allurements  and  toys, 
I  leave  and  despise  you,  for  heavenly  joys ; 
Your  riches  and  pleasures  to  me  have  no  charms, 
For  shortly  I  '11  dwell  in  Emanuel's  arms. 


WAITING    ON    GOD. 


"  0  my  soul,  wait  thou  only  upon  God,  for  my  expectation  is 
from  him." 

O  wait  on  the  Lord,  the  Redeemer  and  King, 
In  every  condition  his  promises  sing ; 
"  They  '11  not  be  ashamed  who  do  wait  upon  Me, 
Their  Shield,  and  Reward,  and  their  Glory  I'll  be.:' 

O  wait  on  the  Lord,  "  when  sore  trials  distress, 
'T  is  but  to  refine  you  and  make  you  more  blest ; 
When  in  the  hot  furnace  the  Lord  doth  us  choose, 
Instead  of  His  wrath,  His  great  mercy  it  proves." 

O  wait  on  the  Lord,  and  thus  "  glorify  Him 

In  fires  and  troubles  through  which  He  shall  bring  ;" 

"  He  sits  as  Refiner  of  silver,"  to  see 

When  Jesus's  image  shines  clearly  in  thee. 

O  wait  on  the  Lord,  for  "  He  knoweth  your  frame," 
"  Afflicteth  in  measure,"  and  comforts  the  same ; 
"  He  feels  as  a.  father,  and  pities  your  state," 
But  wants  you  subdued,  and  on  Him  learn  to  wait. 

O  wait  on  the  Lord,  His  commandments  to  know, 
"  As  rivers,  your  peace  shall  unceasingly  flow ;" 
"  Your  righteousness  roll  like  the  waves  of  the  sea, 
And  far  from  oppression  and  fear  you  shall  be." 


12  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

O  wait  on  the  Lord,  "  He  '11  be  ever  your  Guide," 
"  In  famine,  'mid  plenty,  you  safe  shall  abide ;" 
"  Your  soul,  like  a  well-watered  garden's  supply," 
"  And  pure  springing  fountains  that  never  run  dry." 

O  wait  on  the  Lord,  and  "  be  careful  for  naught, 
For  all  things  give  praises  to  Jesus  who  bought ; 
To  Him  make  your  prayer  and  unspeakable  peace, 
Shall  keep  both  your  heart  and  your  mind  through  His 
grace." 

O  wait  on  the  Lord,  yes,  "  continually  wait," 
"  All  need  He  '11  supply,  as  his  riches  are  great ;" 
Though  "  thorns"  he  should  give  you  from  pride  to  keep 

free, 
My  grace,"  says  your  King,  "  is  sufficient  for  thee." 

O  wait  on  the  Lord,  for  such  only  are  blest, 
"  'Mid  war  and  commotion  in  quiet  you  '11  rest ;" 
"  As  trees  by  the  waters,  you  never  shall  droop, 
Your  leaf  shall  be  green,  and  unfailing  your  fruit." 

O  wait  on  the  Lord,  though  your  're  feeble  and  faint, 
"  He  '11  give  to  you  power  "  becoming  a  saint ; 
When  weak  in  yourself  and  no  might  seem  to  have, 
Then  strength  unto  strength  He  most  surely  will  give. 
PENITENTIARY,  APRIL  11,  1842. 


NOTE. — All  the  remaining  pieces,  as  also  the  one  previous,  are 
Penitentiary  meditations.  Some  were  composed  while  standing 
at  my  lathe,  some  in  my  room,  some  at  the  carpenter's  and  some 
at  the  wagon-maker's  bench,  some  at  my  meals,  some  on  my 
bed  at  night,  £c.,  &c. 


MY    CELL,    No.    1 . 

I  'vc  often  heard  of  prison  cells, 

And  dreary  things  supposed  they  were — 
Where  gloom  and  darkness  only  dwells, 

To  fill  the  prisoner  with  despair. 

And  such  they  are,  to  carnal  hearts, 
Who  have  no  Saviour  and  no  God ; 

The  day  rolls  slow,  the  night  departs, 
And  leaves  them  still  a  drear  abode. 

But  glory  to  th'  eternal  King, 

Who  brought  me  to  this  little  cell  ; 

Sweet  pleasure,  here,  I  find  can  spring, 
For  here  my  God  delights  to  dwell. 

A  hallowed,  consecrated  place — 

A  bethel  is  my  little  cell ; 
The  heavenly  Dove  descends  with  grace, 

And  blessings  more  than  tongue  can  tell. 

The  Father  and  the  Son  come  down, 
And  with  me  make  their  blest  abode  ; 

Not  all  the  honors  of  a  crown 
Equal  the  presence  of  my  God. 

He  sups  with  me  and  I  with  Him, 

He  feasts  my  soul  with  heavenly  love  ; 


14  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

And  while  I  eat  my  food,  so  plain, 
He  pours  the  manna  from  above. 

Not  king  nor  prince  finds  such  delight, 
With  all  his  daily,  sumptuous  fare, 

As  I,  within  my  cell  at  night, 

When  breathing  out  my  humble  prayer. 

These  iron  doors  and  bricken  walls 
Do  fail  to  keep  my  Saviour  out ; 

He  comes  and  listens  to  my  calls — 

Says, "  Peace  to  thee,  my  child,  fear  not." 

In  peace  I  lay  me  down  to  rest, 
While  angels  hover  o'er  my  head ; 

And  while  with  welcome  slumbers  blest, 
They  keep  their  stations  round  my  bed. 

When  morning  gilds  the  Eastern  sky, 

I  early  rise  to  sing  and  pray  ; 
My  Saviour  still  I  find  is  nigh, 

Who  never  leaves  me,  night  or  day. 

Let  rnonarchs  have  their  wide  domain, 
And  men  of  state  in  mansions  dwell ; 

Let  worldlings  shining  dust  obtain, 
But  give  me  Jtsus  and  my  cell. 


DEATH  OF   ELLEN  WORK. 


She  was  about  three  years  old,  and  died  soon  after  we  went 
to  the  Penitentiary.  Grief  and  mourning  for  her  father  are  sup 
posed  to  have  occasioned  her  death. 

Ellen,  where  art  thou,  my  dear  ? 

I  thy  form  no  longer  see  ; 
Now  thy  voice  I  cannot  hear  ; 

Say,  my  child,  where  canst  thou  be  ? 

Mother !  see,  on  Jesus'  breast ! 

In  my  Saviour's  arms,  who  died ; 
Nothing  now  can  me  molest, 

For  He  keeps  me  near  His  side. 

Ellen,  why  so  soon  removed  ? 

"Was  not  I  a  mother  kind  ? 
Have  I  not  thy  sorrows  soothed  ? 

Comfort  sought  for  thee  to  find  ? 

Mother  !  you  were  kind  to  me, 

And  your  voice  I  loved  to  hear ; 
With  you  always  loved  to  be, 

All  your  lonely  hours  to  cheer. 

Had  you  not  a  father  dear  ? 

Loved  he  not  your  fond  embrace  ? 
Loved  he  not  to  wipe  the  tear 

Trickling  down  your  tender  face  ? 


16  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Yes,  my  mother,  but  in  chains — 
He  could  not  come  home  at  all ; 

He  could  not  relieve  rny  pains — 
Could  not  answer  to  my  call. 

Ellen,  why  for  this  depart  ? 

Why  not  stay  and  cheer  rue  still  ? 
Stay  and  soothe  my  aching  heart  ? 

Was  not  this  thy  Saviour's  will  ? 

Mother !  Jesus  saw  't  was  best 
To  remove  me  to  this  place  ; 

In  his  will,  O  let  us  rest ; 

Trust  Him  for  all  needed  grace. 

Ellen,  sing  your  Maker's  praise, 
With  the  saints  around  the  throne  ; 

Tune  your  sweet  and  heavenly  lays 
To  the  Father,  Spirit,  Son. 

Mother  !  can  't  you  come  to  me  V 
Better  place  than  earth  is  this  ; 

O  what  beauties  here  you  '11  see, 
Dwell  in  everlasting  bliss. 

Ellen,  wait  till  Jesus  speaks, 

Saying  to  your  mother,  "  come  ;" 

Then  with  you  I  '11  walk  the  streets 
Of  the  New  Jerusalem. 

Mother,  will  my  father  come  ? 

Brothers  dear  and  sister,  too  ? 
Ellen,  yes,  we  '11  come  as  one, 

And  forever  dwell  with  you  ! 


DEATH  OF  REBECCA  CONRAD. 


She  wns  ayo«.ng  lady,  who  was  studying  at  Mission  Institute, 
for  a  Missionary. 


"  When  I  die,  let  there  be  shouting," 
Said  our  sister  to  those  round ; 

Yes,  beloved,  banish  doubting, 
Let  no  saddening  tear  be  found. 

Joy  and  gladness 
Should  in  every  heart  abound. 

Shout !  ye  saints,  she 's  now  in  glory, 
With  the  randsomed  throng  above  ; 

Angels,  listen  to  her  story 

Of  a  Saviour's  matchless  love. 

Blessed  station  ! 
She,  from  thence,  will  ne'er  remove. 

Shout !  with  harp  of  gold  she  's  singing 
To  Emanuel's  glorious  praise  ; 

Hark  !  the  arch  of  heaven  is  ringing 
With  her  sweet,  melodious  lays. 

Sweet  employment ! 
It  shall  last  through  endless  days. 

Shout !  in  robes  of  white  she  's  walking 
Through  the-  golden  streets  on  high  ; 
See  her  with  the  angels  talking, 


18  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

And  to  saints  around  reply. 

How  they  wonder ! 
Gladness  beams  in  every  eye. 

Shout !  forever  free  from  sighing, 
She  no  sorrow  now  will  know  ; 

No  more  sickness,  pain  or  crying — 
These,  in  heavenly  soil,  can 't  grow. 

Joy  and  glory, 
Christ  doth  on  His  saints  bestow. 

Shout !  there  is  no  cause  for  sadness, 
'T  is  our  Father's  hand  and  kind  ; 

While  all  heaven  is  full  of  gladness, 
Say,  O  say,  shall  we  repine  ? 

O !  give  glory, 
That  she  dwells  in  healthier  clime. 


DEATH  OF  GEORGE  THOMPSON. 


He  was  a  brother's  son,  about  one  year  old. 

Dear  son,  the  darling  of  my  breast, 
How  quickly  art  thou  taken  home  ; 

I  scarce  am  with  thy  presence  blest, 
E'er  Jesus  takes  thec  to  His  throne. 

But  yet  I  '11  murmur  nor  repine, 
The  will  of  God  is  always  best ; 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.       19 

My  will  to  His  I  do  resign, 

And  in  the  blest  assurance  rest. 

With  one  of  old  I  '11  ever  say, 

(For  which  is  spread  abroad  his  fame,) 

"  The  Lord  did  give  and  take  away, 
And  blessed  be  his  holy  name." 

And  so  like  Israel's  ancient  kino- — 

O 

I  'm  satisfied  with  God's  decree, 
For  shortly  "  I  shall  go  to  him, 
But  he  shall  not  return  to  me." 

Then  rest,  my  child,  in  Jesus'  arms, 

Secure  from  all  that  can  molest ; 
Forever  free  from  all  alarms, 

And  with  His  glorious  presence  blest. 

Thou  never  now  will  hunger  more, 
No  pain  nor  sickness  there  will  know  ; 

These  bitter  fruits,  on  Canaan's  shore, 
Can  find  no  soil  in  which  to  grow. 

With  saints  and  angels  thou  dost  dwell, 

And  though  on  earth  thou  couldst  not  speak, 

Yet  now  thy  tongue  is  loosed,  to  swell 
The  heavenly  notes  which  are  so  sweet. 

Sing  on,  my  child,  thy  Maker's  praise, 

Louder  and  louder  tune  thy  harp  ; 
And  when  are  past  a  few  more  days, 

I  '11  join  with  you  no  more  to  part. 


DEATH  OF  LOUISA  CARTER. 

She  wa^  a  scholar  in  the  Sabbath  S.  hoolof  which  I  was  Super 
intendent,  when  I  left  for  the  Penitential  y. 

A  rose  just  beginning  to  bloom, 

And  putting  forth  colors  most  bright, 
By  Death's  icy  hand  is  cut  down, 

And  taken  away  from  our  sight. 
Removed  from  this  cold  earthly  clod, 

So  poorly  adapted  to  flowers — 
Transplanted  in  gardens  of  God, 

'Mid  Eden's  refreshing,  blest  bowers. 

By  parents  't  was  nurtured  with  care — 

They  watched  it  by  night  and  by  day ; 
The  teacher  did  water  with  prayer 

The  plant  so  delightful  and  gay  ; 
But  soon  did  it  wither  and  droop — 

Their  care  could  no  longer  preserve ; 
The  Lord  of  the  Vineyard  did  stoop 

This  plant  for  Himself  to  reserve. 

And  now,  in  the  regions  on  high, 

'T  will  flourish  and  blossom  and  grow — 

It  never  can  wither  or  die — 

And  no  chilling  winds  will  it  know. 

The  Lord  of  the  Vineyard  dwells  there, 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  21 

And  waters  the  plants  of  His  choice  ; 
O,  His  is  a  life-giving  care, 

That  makes  all  around  Him  rejoice. 

Be  faithful,  thou  teacher  of  L., 

To  all  who  're  committed  to  thee  ; 
Prepare  them  with  Jesus  to  dwell — 

Instruct  them  from  all  sin  to  flee. 
Be  joyful,  ye  parents,  and  sing, 

"  Be  done,  righteous  Father,  Thy  will ; 
Descend,  holy  Spirit,  and  bring 

Sweet  balm  from  th'  heavenly  hill." 


CRUCIFIED  WITH  CHRIST. 

Be  dead,  my  heart,  to  earthly  joys, 

To  worldly  pomp  and  pride  ; 
To  all  terrestrial,  fleeting  toys, 
And  all  that  heavenly  peace  destroys — 

"  With  Christ  I  'm  crucified." 

Be  dead,  my  hopes,  for  life  to  gain, 

Behind  the  laic  to  hide  ; 
My  selfish  works  are  all  in  vain — 
The  law  is  broken,  and  I  'm  slain — 

"  With  Christ  I'm  crucified." 

"  But  still  I  live — and  yet  not  I, 
'T  is  Christ  the  Lord  who  died — 


22  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

He  lives  in  me,"  and  with  His  eye 

Guides  me  to  worlds  beyond  the  sky 

"  With  Christ  I  'm  crucified." 

"  I  live  by  faith,  the  life  I  live," 

In  Jesus'  crimson  side, 
Who  loved  me,  and  His  life  did  give 
That  I  salvation  might  receive — 

"  With  Christ  1 5m  crucified." 


BIRTH-DAY    REFLECTION. 

And  now  I've  numbered  twenty-five, 

And  up  to  manhood  grown  : 
Anew  to  God,  my  life  I  give, 
For  Him,  and  His  dear  cause,  to  live, 

And  keep  in  view  my  Home. 

My  days  of  vanity  are  past, 

My  years  of  childhood  o'er  : 
The  joys  that  but  a  moment  last, — 
The  phantoms  that  elude  the  grasp, 

Shall  fill  my  soul  no  more. 

Much  of  my  time  has  run  to  waste, — 

In  childish  ways  been  spent : 
But  since  of  Heaven,  I've  had  a  taste, 
To  do  my  Master's  will,  I'll  haste, — 

For  which  I  here  am  sent. 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.       23 

This  day,  I  swear  allegiance  new, 

To  Jesus  Christ,  my  King ; 
My  powers  combine  His  will  to  do, 
In  all  His  footsteps  to  pursue, 

And  of  His  glory  sing. 

Come,  Lord,  take  full  possession  now, 

For  Thou  hast  set  me  free ; 
My  will  to  Thine  doth  sweetly  bow, 
No  rival  in  my  heart  allow, 

To  Thee,  King  Jesus,  Thee. 

The  past  has  been  eventful  year, 

Enclosed  in  prison  walls ; 
Excluded  from  my  friends  so  dear — 
Barred  from  the  house  of  God  so  near — 

And  yet  He  hears  my  calls. 

On  every  side  have  gathered  fears 

And  dangers  thick  around ; 
For  me  have  fallen  many  tears, 
And  on  me  many  poured  their  sneers, 

And  yet  my  joys  abound. 

The  Lord  has  been  my  strength  and  stay, 

The  source  of  my  delight ; 
He  drove  my  doubts  and  fears  away, 
Turned  all  my  darkness  into  day, 

And  filled  my  soul  with  light. 

In  him  I  hope,  on  him  I  wait, 

According  to  his  word  ; 
His  help  He  '11  give  in  every  strait, 


24  TOEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

And  never,  never  me  forsake, 
For  thus  hath  said  the  Lord. 

My  Saviours  will  is  truly  mine, 

In  which  I  sweetly  rest ; 
My  all  I  cheerfully  resign, 
Nor  ever  shall  niy  soul  repine — 

The  will  of  Heaven  is  best. 
AUGUST  12,  1842. 


THE  SECOND  COMING  OF  CHRIST. 

Hark  !  what  is  this  that  strikes  my  ear  ? 
The  shouts  of  victory  I  hear 

Proceeding  from  the  sky  ; 
One  voice  above  the  others  sounds, 
And  reaches  earth's  remotest  bounds, 

As  quick  as  lightnings  fly. 

I  see  them  with  a  vision  clear — 
The  mighty  host  is  drawing  near — 

The  angels  of  the  Lord ; 
There  numbers,  thousands  multiplied, 
Extending  far  on  every  side ; 

The  Arch- Angel  gives  the  word. 

But  oh !  behold  my  Saviour  there, 
Surrounded  by  them  in  the  air — 

A  cloud  His  chariot  is  ; 
He  comes  to  break  the  bars  of  death, 


•POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS,  25 

And  bear  His  ransomed  children  safe 
To  everlasting  bliss. 

And  now  I  hear  the  trumpet  sound ! 
**  Awake,  ye  nations  under  ground, 

Death's  iron  fetters  burst !" 
O,  what  a  sight !  -with  bodies  new 
The  shining  saints  appear  in  view — 

«  The  dead  in  Christ  rise  first." 

With  them  we  're  caught  into  the  air, 
And  rise  so  quick,  without  compare, 

To  meet  our  glorious  King  ; 
Close  seated  by  our  Saviour's  side, 
With  him  upon  the  clouds  we  ride, 

And  alleluiahs  sing. 

*'  So  with  the  Lord  we  '11  ever  be," 
From  sin  and  death  forever  free, 

Secure  from  every  foe , 
With  saints  -and  angels  we  unite, 
And  shine  in  robes  of  spotless  white ; 

Farewell  vain  world  below. 


VICTORY,     AND    ITS    REWARD. 

Surrounded  by  a  crazy  world, 
With  all  its  vanities  unfurled, 
Which  flatter  and  benumb ; 
Ten  thousand  baits, — ten  thousand  lies, 

2 


26       POEMS  ON  VAKIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

To  tempt  me  ne'er  from  earth  to  rise, — 
How  shall  I  overcome  ? 

The  flesh,  with  all  its  vain  desires — , 
Pride,  envy,  hate,  and  passion's  fires, 

And  every  temper  wrong : 
Fear,  low  affections,  hateful  lust, 
Vain  thoughts,  and  grovelling  in  the  du&t,- 

O  !  can  I  overcome  ? 

And  can  I  conquer  Satan,  too, 
Yea,  all  his  legion-hosts  subdue, 

And  tread  the  Tempter  down  ? 
His  cunning,  and  his  fraud,  resist, 
While  flesh,  and  all  the  world  assist  ? 

Through  CIIUIST,  Til  overcome. 

Myself  I  yield  to  His  control, 

To  rule  my  heart,  and  fill  my  soul, — 

I  trust  in  Him  alone. 
By  faith,  I  see  the  bright  reward, — 
Believe  His  never  failing  word, 

To  those  who  overcome. 

The  "  Tree  of  Life,"  they  shall  partake, 
Which  grows  in  Paradise,  in  state, 

And  yields  a  rich  supply. 
No  flaming  sword  to  guard  it  there, — 
"  Come,  every  conqueror,  and  share, — 

Come  eat,  and  never  die.'"* 

"  The  second  death"  shall  have  no  power 
O'er  conquerors,  in  the  trying  hour, — 
Securely  they  shall  rest: 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.       27 

Though  friends  and  neighbors  sink  to  hell, 
They  shall  with  Christ  in  glory  dwell, 
And  be  forever  blest. 

"  The  hidden  manna,"  they  shall  eat, 
And  praise  their  King  for  food  so  sweet, 

Who  a  "  white  stone"  shall  give : 
A  "name  that's  new  is  in  the  stone, 
And  which  is  known  to  others  none, 

But  he  who  doth  receive." 

To  conquerors,  a  "  power  He'll  give, 
O'er  all  the  nations  that  do  live, 

To  rule  them  with  a  rod :" 
And  more  than  this,  much  more,  by  far, — 
He'll  give  to  them  the  "  Morning  Star," 

That  lights  the  throne  of  God. 

"  White,  spotless  robes,"  the  Victors  wear, — 
In  "  Book  of  Life,"  their  names  shine  fair, 

Which  Christ  will  ne'er  erase. 
"Before  the  Angels  of  our  God, 
He  will  confess  their  names  aloud, 

And  'fore  His  Father's  face." 

Firm  "  Pillars,"  they  shall  ne'er  remove 
From  God's  great  temple,  built  above, — 

His  name  shall  be  on  them : 
There  shall  be  written  on  the  same, 
Their  Lord  and  King,  the  Lamb's  "  new  name," 

And  "  New  Jerusalem." 

But  hark  !     "  To  those  who  overcome, 
I'll  give  to  sit  upon  My  throne, 


28        POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

And  be  joint-heirs  with  Me  : 
As  I  with  Father,  sit  on  His, 
So  they  shall  reign  with  Me  in  bliis, 

And  all  My  glory  see." 

"  A  kingdom,"  each  shall  then  receive, — 
"  A  crown  of  life,"  their  Lord  shall  give, 

And  they  shall  judge  the  world : 
Welcome  each  other,  face  to  face — 
Pass  sentence  on  the  wicked  race, 

Who  down  to  hell  are  hurled. 

They,  thousand  times  ten  thousand  fold, 
Shall  each  possess  a  harp  of  gold, 

To  praise  their  glorious  King  : 
No  tears — no  groans — no  mournful  lay — 
No  pain,  through  an  eternal  day, 

While  they  with  seraphs  sing. 

Is  this  the  prize  of  victory  ? 
Then,  O  my  soul,  encouraged  be, 

To  run  the  Christian  race  : 
Forget  the  past,  and  look  before — 
Behold  the  prize  on  Canaan's  shore — 

Press  on  with  quickening  pace. 

O  !  what  are  all  thy  trials  here — 
Imprisonment  year  after  year, 

While  friends  and  kindred  frown  ? 
Thy  suffering  days  will  soon  be  past, 
And  thou,  a  conquerer  at  last, 

Ascend  to  take  thy  crown. 

Come,  come,  cheer  up,  to  Jesus  look, 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.       29 

Who  thy  salvation  undertook, 

And  for  it  shed  his  blood  ; 
Through  this  thou  'It  conquer  sin  and  death — • 
Shout  "  Victory!"  with  thy  latest  breath, 

And  rise  to  dwell  with  God. 


WALKING  WITH   GOD. 

How  brief  a  history  of  man, 

Who  walked  this  earthly  clod  ! 
Let  human  wisdom  join  to  plan, — 
This  more  contains  than  volumes  can, 
"AND  EXOCII  WALKED  WITH  GOD." 

The  wicked,  round,  did  mock,  deride, 

And  charge  with  being  "  odd:" 
Said  all  they  could  to  turn  aside, — 
That  "  in  his  ways  he  took  a  pride," — 
But—"  Enoch  walked  with  God." 

So  steady  did  he  fix  his  eyes 

Upon  his  blest  abode, — 
And  earthly  vanities  despise, — 
God  took  him  home  up  through  the  skiea, 

For—"  Enoch  walked  with  God." 

O!  Christian,  woull  you  happy  be, 

And  live  on  Angels'  food  ? 
From  sin's  dominion  now  be  free, 
And  Jesus  Christ,  in  glory  see  ? 

Come,  then,  and  "  walk  with  God." 


30  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Would  you  be  kept  in  perfect  peace, 
Through  all  your  earthly  road  ? — 
In  heavenly  knowledge  still  increase, 
With  Angels  sing,  and  never  cease  ? 
Come,  then,  and  "  walk  with  God." 

Would  you  behind  a  record  leave, 

Like  one  before  the  flood  ? 
Then  Jesus'  promises  believe, — 
His  full  salvation  now  receive,,— 
Come,  Christian,  "  walk  with  God." 

Renounce  the  world,  with  all  its  show, 

Though  many  call  you  odd  : 
Come,  in  the  Saviour's  footsteps  go, 
And  let  the  world  around  you  know 
That  you  will  "  walk  with  God." 

If  wealth  you  seek,  that  quickly  flees 

Before  Jehovah's  nod: 
Or  worldly  fame,  or  sensual  ease, 
Or  strive  a  trifling  world  to  please, — 

You  cannot  "  walk  with  God." 

But  consecrate  your  life  to  Him, 
Who  gave  his  precious  blood : 
Renounce  yourself,  and  every  sin, 
And  daily  press  the  prize  to  win, — 
O  !  Christian,  "  walk  with  God." 


THE   UNSEEN   HAND. 

A  hand  unseen,  there  Is,  I  know, 

From  whence  my  many  blessings  flow, — 

A  hand  that's  wise  and  good  : 
It  loads  my  table  when  I'm  out, 
And  from  this  hand,  I've  not  a  doubt, 

Comes  all  my  daily  food. 

It  guards  me  in  the  darkest  hour, 
From  all  the  ills  that  would  devour, — 

Securely  makes  me  rest, 
While  others,  filled  with  anxious  fear, 
Lest  some  destruction  should  be  near, 

Or  death  should  them  arrest. 

It  guides  my  steps  through  all  the  day, 
And  if  so  be  I  go  astray, 

It  gently  leads  me  back ; — 
Preserves  me,  going  out  and  in, 
From  foes  without,  and  foes  within, — 

JVb  good  it  lets  me  lack. 

At  home,  abroad,  on  sea,  or  land, 
I  am  protected  by  this  hand, 

Which  every  want  supplies  : 
From  none,  assistance  it  withholds, 
Who  earnest  seek,  with  upright  souls, 

And  on  its  aid  relies. 


32  poors  ox  VARIOUS 


Through  many  dangers  I  have  comey 
Since  I  my  pilgrimage  begun, 

And  left  my  native  land  : 
But  in-  the  time  of  greatest  fear,. 
I  found  a  great  Deliverer  near,  — 

This  gracious,  unseen  hand. 

Whatever,  then,  may  yet  befal,  — 
Though  threat'nirrg  dangers  should  appaL 

And  Hell  my  way   withstand,  — 
In  Prison,  free,  rmong  foes,  or  friends, 
Joyful,  I'll  take  whatever  it  sends, 

And  trust  the  unseen  hand. 

O  !  Christian,  trust,  nor  be  afraid,  — 
Just  keep  your  mind  on  Jesus  staid,  — 

Survey  the  promised  land  : 
And  as  you  journey,  don't  forget 
The  power  that  guards  you,  every  step, 

This  faithful,  unseen  hand. 

Gird  on  the  armor  of  your  Lord,  — 
Be  ready  to  obey  His  word,  — 

Your  wings  of  faith  expand,  — 
Above  terrestrial  things  arise 
To  nobler  joys  beyond  the  skies,  — 

And  view  the  unseen  hand, 


"  TlilS  DO,  IN  REMEMBRANCE  OF  MEL 

Dear  Saviour,  now  enthroned  on  high, 
Whagav'st  Thyself  for  us  to  die ; — 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

And  lest  we  ever  should  forget 
Thy  dying  groans,  and  bloody  sweat, 
Did'st  charge  Thy  followers,  bond  and  free, 
•"This  do  in  memory  of  Me." 

Thy  dying  charge  we  will  obey, 
In  this  our  simple,  humble  way  :* 
O,  let  us  each  Thy  love  partake, 
While  now  Thy  death  we  celebrate ; 
From  sin's  dominion  set  us  free, 
And  help  us  to  remember  Thee. 

Thou  art  the  true  and  living  bread. 

With  which  our  needy  souls  are  fed} 

As  water  makes  our  bodies  clean, 

Thy  blood  shall  cleanse  our  souls  from  sin  ; 

Thy  fair  example  let  us  see, 

For,  Lord,  we  would  remember  Thee, 

Thy  spotless  life  we  call  to  mind, 
With  all  Thy  treatment  so  unkind, — 
The  Garden,  Judgment-hall,  and  thorns, — 
The  nails,  the  spear,  and  impious  scorns, — 
While  each  can  say,  "  'Twas  all  for  me," 
O,  Lord,  we  do  remember  Thee. 

Our  cov'nant  vows  we  now  renew, 
Thy  will  to  suffer,  or  to  do  : 


*  During;  our  imprisonment,  we  frequently  begged  of  minis 
ters,  that  they  would  administer  to  us  the  Lord's  Supper.  Be 
ing  refused,  we  observed  the  ordinance  among  ourselves,  having 
our  corn  bread,  and  water,  which  supported  our  natural  life,  as 
emblems  of  the  body  and  blood  of  Christ,  by  which  the  spirit 
ual  life  is  sustained. 


34       POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

Give  us  Thy  Spirit  for  our  gnide, 
That  we  may  never  turn  aside  : 
See  now,  Thy  little  children  see, 
Henceforth,  we  will  remember  Thee. 


SATURDAY    NIGHT. 

Now  our  weekly  toils  are  o'er, 
Blessings  on  them  we  implore  : 
Lord,  let  not  our  works  be  vain, 
We  have  done  them  for  Thy  name, 
On  them  smile,  and  give  success, 
To  relieve  the  poor  opprcst. 

Let  our  thanks  acceptance  meet, 
For  the  blessing  of  the  week  ; 
Let  our  prayers  and  praises  come 
Like  sweet  incense  'fore  Thy  throne 
Hear,  and  send  us  answers  down, 
For  the  sake  of  Thy  dear  Son. 

By  Thy  hand,  have  we  been  fe<^ 
With  all  "good?  as  Thou  hast  said : 
"Bread  and  water,''  has  been  sure, 
While  have  suffered  many  poor : 
Living  bread,  we've  had  to  eat, 
And  with  Thee,  communion  sweet. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  35 

From  all  evils,  we've   been  kept, 
Both  awake,  and  when  we  slept  : 
Coming  in,  and  going  out, 
Mercy  compassed  us  about, 
At  whose  voice  the  tumults  cease, 
lie  has  kept  our  souls  in  peace. 

Thanks  we  give  Thee,  and  adore, 
O,  for  grace  to  love  Thee  more  : 
Lord,  forgive  what  Thou  hast  seen, 
Where  unthankful  we  have  been: 
All  our  sins,  in  word  and  thougt, 
O,  for  Jesus'  sake,,  blot  out. 

Now  prepare  us  for  Thy  day, 
Drive  our  worldly  cares  away  : 
Fix  our  minds,  compose  our  hearts, 
Give  the  peace  Thy  smile  imparts  : 
Fill  our  souls  with  heavenly  love, 
Foretaste  of  our  Rest  above. 


we  will  begin  our  song, 
Sabbaths  ne'er  can  be  too  long':  — 
Day  on  which  our  Lord  arose, 
Conquering  Death,  and  all  his  foes  : 
When  we  breathe  its  holy  air, 
Let  us  in  the  victory  share. 


THE  MISSIONARY'S   COMFORT  AND 
SUPPORT. 

"  I  am  -with  thee,  I  will  keep  thee," 

In  the  way  thy  duties  lead : 
I  will  strengthen,  I  will  help  thec, 

And  supply  thy  every  need. 
I  am  with  thee, 

Go,  and  to  my  words  give  heed. 

When  thou  leav'st  thy  friends  and  neighbor^ 

Parents,  Brothers,  Sisters  dear, 
To  commence  thy  mission  labors-, 
Then  dry  up  the  falling  tear. 

/  will  lead  thee, 
Thou  must  not  give  place  to  fear. 

When  through  forests  thou  art  roaming. 

Seeking  for  the  Heathen  tribe, 
Or  along  the  cataract  foaming — 

Or  where  rivers  gently  glide, 
/  will  keep  thee, 

Every  want  shall  be  supplied. 

When  thou  tread'st  the  snow-capt  mountain? 

Learning  with  them  to  converse ; 
Or  beside  the  crystal  fountain, 

Dost  Mount  Calvary's  scenes  rehearse, 
/  will  bless  thee, 

Heathen  darkness  shall  disperse^ 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  37 

Tossed  upon  the  mighty  ocean, 

Under  strong  tempestuous  gale, 
All  around  in  wild  commotion, 

Making  every  face  look  pale, 
/  will  help  thee, 

Never  let  thy  courage  fail. 

When  o'er  burning  deserts  straying, 

Thou  no  cooling  shade  canst  see  ; 
Or  disease  is  on  thee  preying, 

Thou  shalt  not  forgotten  be  ; 
/  will  help  thee, 

Only  stay  thy  mind  on  Me. 

When  for  days  and  nights  together, 
Thou  hast  neither  drink  nor  food  ; 

And  no  shelter  from  the  weather — 
Keep  thy  mind  in  cheerful  mood. 

/  will  help  thte, 
Thou  shalt  lack  no  real  good. 

When  they  beat  you,  bear  it  meekly — • 

Cast  you  into  pits,  rejoice — 
In  the  dungeon,  sing  so  sweetly 

As  to  stop  the  scoffer's  voice  ; 
I  will  help  thee — 

Shout  and  make  a  joyful  noise. 

When  to  Pagans  thou  art  preaching, 

Making  known  salvation's  way ; 
Crowds,  shall  gather  round  thee,  weeping, 
Loudly  crying — "  for  me  pray." 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

/  will  help  thee, 
They  shall  cast  their  Gods  away. 

Thou  shalt  teach  the  heathen  mother, 
To  preserve  and  love  her  child  : 

See  the  children  love  each  other, 
And  the  father  kind  and  mild ; 

/  will  help  thce, 
Therefore  thou  canst  tame  the  wild. 

Come,  my  sons  and  daughters,  hasten — 
Up,  and  gird  your  armor  on ; 

Go  to  some  benighted  nation, 

Where  the  light  has  never  slione : 

I  will  help  you, 
Go,  and  make  my  Gospel  known. 

Go — and  sound  the  proclamation, 

"Peace  and  pardon  through  My  Son  ;" 

Give  to  all  the  invitation, 
Overlook  in  darkness  none. 

I  will  help  you, 
Every  tribe  to  me  shall  come. 

On  my  promises  relying, 

Go — and  rude  Barbarians  teach : 
Every  worldly  lust  denying, 

Show  in  practice,  what  you  preach, 

I  am  toith  you — /  will  help  you, 

Go — "a  crown  I  '11  give  to  each." 


THE    CANDLE   OF    THE   LORD, 

Our  Father's  candle,  O,  how  bright ! 

By  which  we  read  His  Word : 
"  The  lesser  light  that  rules  the  night" — 

"  The  candle  of  the  Lord." 

It  fills  our  little  cell  with  light, 
We  read,  and  sing,  and  pray  ;* 

It  guides  the  wanderer  aright, 
And  makes  him  know  his  way. 

It  lights  His  children  to  the  place, 
Where  they  their  vows  have  made — 

Been  strengthened  in  the  Christian  race, 
While  seeking  heavenly  aid. 

But  a  far  brighter  light  have  we, 

By  our  kind  Father  given  : 
"  The  light  of  Life" — by  which  we  see 

The  way  that  leads  to  heaven. 

It  shows  to  us  the  rocks  and  shoals, 

That  in  our  voyage  lie  : 
And  safely  guides  our  precious  souls, 

To  fairer  worlds  on  high. 

It  tells  from  whence  the  storms  do  come, 
And  what  will  make  them  cease  : 

We  clearly  sec  our  blissful  Home — 
The  Fort  of  endless  peace. 


We  were  in  the  habit  of  reading  by  mson'iglit. 


TFIE    WILL    OF    CHRIST    IS    BEST. 

Be  still  my  soul  and  murmur  not, 

But  count  thyself  most  blest: 
Whate'er  on  earth  miy  be  thy  lot, 

The  ic  ill  of  Christ  is  btsl. 

When  sore  afflictions  cause  the  tear 

To  fall  upon  thy  breast, 
Then  let  this  thought  thy  spirit  cheer, 

The  will  of  Christ  is  best. 

When  from  thy  kindred  thou  art  torn, 

By  sudden,  rude  arrest ; 
And  into  hostile  regions  borne — 

The  will  of  Christ  is  best. 

"When  foes  arise,  and  friends  forsake, 

And  thou  art  made  a  jest, 
Ne'er  let  thy  confidence  abate, 
That  Jesus'  will  is  best. 

When  for  thy  blessed  Saviour's  sake, 

Reproaches  on  thee  rest ; 
And  of  His  suffering  thou  partake — 

The  will  of  Christ  is  best. 

When  dashed  thy  hopes  and  crossed  thy  plans, 

Thy  faithfulness  to  test ; 
Whate'er  the  sacrifice  demands, 

The  will  of  Christ  is  best. 


41       POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

When  Death  shall  take  thy  bosom  friend, 

Or  children  home  to  rest ; 
For  Parent,  Brother,  Sister,  send — 

The  will  of  Christ  is  best. 

And  when  for  ihee,  thy  Lord  shall  call, 
And  thou  dost  heaven  possess ; 

Thou,  at  His  feet,  wilt  humbly  fall, 
And  own  his  will  was  best. 

Then  now  believe  this  simple  word, 

However  much  distrest ; 
For  nations  yet  unborn,  record 

The  will  of  Christ  is  best. 

Let  billows  dash,  and  tempests  blow, 

And  trials  on  thee  press  ; 
Wait  on  the  Lord,  and  thou  shalt  know 

The  will  of  Christ  is  best, 

O,  this  doth  all  my  sorrows  heal, 
My  doubts  and  fears  repress : 

While  in  my  heart  this  truth  I  feel — 
The  will  of  Christ  is  best. 

Had  I  a  voice  so  strong  and  loud 
To  reach  from  east  to  west ; 

I'd  say  to  all  with  sorrows  bow'd, 
THE  WILL  OF  CHRIST  is  BEST. 


DEATH   OF  MOSES  HUNTER* 

A  Prince  and  a  man  that  was  great, 

Has  fallen  in  Israel  to-day ; 
Those  hearing  the  words  that  he  spake, 

Will  witness  to  what  I  now  say. 
His  simple  and  ardent  desire, 

Was  only  to  know  "  What  is  right  ?" 
For  this  he  would  often  enquire, 

And  this  was  his  study  by  nig  Jit. 

When  clearly  this  truth  he  could  view, 

To  preach  and  to  do  was  his  aim ; 
Though  many  opposed  him,  or  few, 

He  ever  remained  the  same. 
Their  scoffs,  taunts,  and  sneers  he  disdained, 

Reproaches,  with  patience  did  bear ; 
Reviled,  he  reviled  not  again, 

But  gave  himself  humbly  to  prayer. 

The  Bible,  he  took  for  his  guide, 

At  home,  or  when  going  abroad  ; 
Though  many  his  ways  did  deride, 

He  clung  to  the  laws  of  his  God, 
Inscribed,  and  so  dear  to  his  heart, 

Its  precepts,  commandments  and  laws, 
With  wealth  and  applause,  he  did  part, 

And  scorned  earthly  pleasures  as  straws. 


*  Principal  of  the  Missionary  Institute. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS  43 

O'er  sins  of  the  people,  he  sighed, 

And  things  that  were  wrong  in  the  land ; 
Against  them,  most  loudly  he  cried, 

And  thundered  God's  holy  command. 
To  Moses,  they  could  not  reply, 

"  And  what  more  than  others  do  you  ?" 
They  cannot — they  dare  not  deny, 

In  practice,  he  showed  what  to  do. 

His  heart  was  enlarged  for  the  world, 

As  far  as  the  effects  of  the  fall : 
The  sign  of  his  banner  unfurled, 

Was  plainly, "  SALVATION  TO  ALL.'' 
And  how  to  accomplish  this  work, 

He  studied  by  day  and  by  night ; 
His  body  and  mind  did  exert, 

To  bring  this  revolted  world  right. 

And  when  he  no  longer  could  walk, 

(But  feeling  the  work  must  be  done,) 
Unable  on  crutches  to  halt, 

He'd  ride  in  the  arms  of  his  son. 
And  then,  O  !  how  gracious  the  words, 

That  fell  from  his  quivering  lips ; 
So  feeble,  he  scarce  can  be  heard, 

As  on  his  soft  pillow  he  sits. 

And  when  the  kind  angel  drew  near, 

To  bear  him  to  mansions  on  high  ; 
His  mind  was  composed  and  clear, 

And  he  to  his  friends  did  reply  ; 
"I'm  ready,  and  have  been,  for  years — 

I've  finished  my  work  while  'twas  day ; 


44       POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

And  now,  my  Redeemer  appears, 
To  bear  his  poor  servant  away. 

"  My  wife  and  my  children,  I  leave 

With  Christ  their  Redeemer  and  Friend  ; 
My  God  will  the  widow  relieve, 

And  all  needed  good  He  will  send — 
O  !  tell  those  young  soldiers  of  His, 

One  interest  have  with  your  God, 
Strive  always  your  Savior  to  please, 

Secure  in  your  hearts,  His  abode." 

He's  gone — and  we  see  him  no  more  ; 

With  Angels  he  now  walks  in  white ; 
Afflictions  and  sorrows  are  o'er, 

In  lands  of  eternal  delight. 
No  mid-summer's  sun,  nor  the  cold, 

Can  ever  affect  those  bright  plains ; 
No  evil  he  e'er  shall  behold — 

Eternally  soothed  are  his  pains. 

Ye  children  and  wife,  murmur  not ; 

Submit  to  your  kind  Father's  hand  : 
Be  faithful,  and  soon  you'll  be  brought, 

To  meet  in  Emmanuel's  land. 
Our  Moses,  dear  Lord,  Thou  hast  took, 

O  !  send  us  our  Joshua  too ; 
Our  souls  to  Thee  only,  now  look, 

To  guide  us  in  all  that  we  do. 


EDWIN  LOVEJOY    WORK'S    PRAYER 
FOR  BREAD. 

He  was  about  five  years  old,  when  his  mother  was  out  of  flour, 
and  nearly  all  provisions— nor  knew  wheie  she  should  get  any. 
Little  Edwin  betook  himself  to  prayer,  at  night — the  next  day, 
a  man,  very  unexpectedly  brought  them  some  flcur.  The  oc 
currence  is  described  below, 

"  O,  Father  in  heaven,  give  mother  some  bread, 
The  world  is  all  Thine,  and  by  Thee  we  are  fed ; 
The  hearts  of  the  rich,  Thou  canst  easy  affect, 
Incline  them  to  give  us — our  lives  to  protect. 

Our  father  they've  fastened  in  high  prison  walls, 
He  cannot  come  to  us,  nor  answer  our  calls ; 
He  works  very  hard  from  the  morning  till  eve, 
But  can't  give  us  bread,  nor  our  hunger  relieve. 

O  !  Father  in  heaven,  our  mother  in  poor, 

And  sometimes  so  sick  she  can  scarce  leave  the  door ; 

Our  brother  is  small,  and  lie  has  to  be  led, 

And,  oh,  how  can  mother  provide  for  us  bread  ? 

Already,  our  horse  and  our  waggon  she's  sold, 
And  numerous  things  to  preserve  us  from  cold ; 
The  officers  come  for  to  take  what  is  left, 
And  heed  not  the  cries  of  our  mother  bereft. 

O,  Father  in  heaven,  in  mercy  behold — 
When  poor  cry  to  Thee,  Thou'lt  answer,  we're  told — 
O,  send  us  some  bread,  and  do  not  let  us  fall — 
Dear  Father,  dear  Father,  do  hear  now,  my  call." 


46        POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

The  ears  of  the  Saviour  were  opened  to  hear  ; 

He  heard  and  He  answered  this  little  boy's  prayer. 

On  next  day,  at  supper,  the  following  scene, 

In  substance  took  place — and  'twas  thus  it  began. 

"  I  know  what  it  was  made  you  get  this  good  flour, 
Dear  mother,  I  prayed  in  the  dark  silent  hour ; 
I  asked  God  in  faith,  and  I  knew  He  would  do, 
He  told  Mr.  C.  he  must  give  it  to  you. 

You  would  not  have  got  it,  if  I  had  not  prayed : 
Then  never,  dear  mother,  again  be  afraid ; 
Our  Father  in  heaven  knows  just  what  we  need, 
In  Him  let  us  trust,  and  with  good  He  will  feed." 

Thus  Edwin  did  wrestle,  like  Jacob  of  old, 
And  would  not,  like  Israel,  let  go  his  hold  ; 
With  God  he  prevailed,  and  obtained  his  request, 
And  happy  those  parents,  with  such  a  child  blest. 


YOUNG   MAN,    REMEMBER. 

The  following  was  addressed  to  a  fellow  prisoner,  and  after 
wards  given  to  another  as  he  left  us. 

Young  man,  remember  what  you  are — 

A  mortal — soon  to  die  ; 
Your  flesh  the  object  of  your  care, 
Though  now  it  seem  so  bright  and  fair, 

A  putrid  mass  will  lie. 

Death  hastens  on  apace  for  you, 
To  bear  your  spirit  hence  ; 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  47 

The  things  that  now  attract  your  view, 
And  occupy  your  study  too, 
Will  furnish  no  defence. 

But  wliiilier  will  your  spirit  go  ? 

Ah !  whither  will  it  fly  ? 
To  that  dark  world  of  endless  woe, 
Where  it  no  happiness  will  know  ? 

Or  up  to  God  on  high  ? 

Kemember — 'tis  for  you  to  say, 

Where  shall  your  spirit  dwell ; 
In  climes  of  perfect,  cloudless  day, 
Where  ne'er  is  heard  a  mournful  lay — 

Or  with  the  damned  in  Hell. 

Now  lowly  at  the  Saviour's  feet, 

Confess  your  every  sin ; 
With  true  repentance,  mercy  seek, 
And  you  shall  find  forgiveness  sweet, 

And  heavenly  peace  within. 

Renounce  the  world's  deceitful  show, 

7 

And  serve  the  Lord  alone ; 
E'er  seek  your  Master's  will  to  know, 
And  you  shall  then  to  glory  go, 

And  find  with  Him  your  home. 

But  if  your  sinful  course  you  choose, 

And  feed  on  sensual  joys  ; 
Obedience  to  your  Lord  refuse. 
The  offers  of  His  grace  abuse, 

And  cleave  to  earthly  toys ; 


48  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

With  hope  and  joy  you  then  must  part — 

Forever,  know  no  peace ; 

Shut  out  from  God,  in  dismal  dark, 

Beneath  His  angry  stroke  to  smart, 

In  pains  that  never  cease. 

O,  Sir,  the  Saviour's  call  obey, 

Submit,  and  own  him  King ; 
Yield  up  your  heart  without  delay, 
And  you  shall  happy  be  to-day, 
And  with  the  Angels  sing. 


"AWAKE  THOU  THAT  SLEEPE  S  T,"  &c. 

From  the  above  words  I  preached  to  the  Prisoners,  and  sang 
the  following — made  for  the  occasion  : 

Sinner,  awake,  and  rise 

From  sin,  and  death,  and  woe ; 
Arouse,  and  open  now  your  eyes, 

Before  you  farther  go. 

Awake — and  look  within — 

Your  crimes  are  multiplied  ! 
Reflect,  repent,  and  turn  from  sin, 

For  Jesus  Christ  has  died. 

Awake — for  death  is  near, 

O,  then,  no  longer  sleep ; 
The  Saviour  calls —  awake,  and  hear, 

And  o'er  your  follies  weep. 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.        49 

O,  Sleeper,  now  awake, 

And  shun  that  awful  Hell ; 
Before  another  step  you  take, 

Your  state,  O,  who  can  tell  | 

Arise — to  Jesus  come, 

And  He  will  give  you  light ; 
Come,  love  the  Lord,  for  what  He's  done, 

And  serve  Him  with  your  might. 

O,  do  at  once  arise, 

And  make  your  peace  with  God  ; 
He'll  take  you  then,  above  the  skies, 

To  rest  in  His  abode. 


MY  CELL,   No.  2. 

The  following,  composed  iu  the  midst  of  an  interesting  revival 
in  the  Prison,  explains  itself. 

Come  ye  who  love  the  Saviour's  name, 

And  joy  His  praise  to  swell ; 
Attend,  while  I  His  grace  proclaim, 

In  this,  our  "  hallowed  ccU  " 

The  God  of  comfort  to  our  hearts, 

Our  glory  and  delight, 
A  joy  unspeakable  imparts, 

And  new,  increasing  light. 

'Tis  here,  we  read  and  sing  and  pray 
Before  the  mercy  seat ; 


50  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

'Tis  here,  we  find  from  day  to  day, 
With  God,  communion  sweet. 

With  cheerful  hearts,  we  celebrate 

His  dying,  rising  love  ; 
In  faith,  the  living  bread  partake, 

W'hich  comes  from  heaven  abore. 

Tis  here,  the  Christian  band  we  meet, 

Upon  the  Sabbath  day ; 
With  rapturous  joy  each  other  greet, 
And  run  the  heavenly  way. 

Together  here  the  sinners  crowd, 
To  hear  what  they  must  do  ; 

And  when  before  the  Lord  they're  bowed, 
For  mercy,  earnest  sue. 

Their  solemn  groans,  and  mournful  sighs, 
Bespeak  their  inward  grief: 

With  bleeding  hearts,  and  streaming  eyes. 
They  beg  from  God,  relief. 

Their  sins  they  heartily  confess — 

Forgive,  and  are  forgiven : 
The  Lord  doth  own,  and  richly  bless, 

And  writes  their  names  in  heaven. 

The  hoary-headed,  hard  in  sin, 
Just  bending  o'er  the  grave ; 

Do  here,  their  real  lives  begin, 
For  Him,  who  died  to  save. 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.        51 

The  youth,  in  vice  and  crime,  for  years, 

And  men  of  middle  age ; 
Here  come,  and  with  a  flood  of  tears, 

To  serve  the  Lord  engage. 

The  long-lost  prodigal  returns, 

The  dead  revive  and  live ; 
The  Saviour's  love  within  them  burns, 

And  praise  to  Him  they  give. 

The  tiger  is  a  quiet  lamb — 

The  vulture  now  a  dove — 
And  doubt  this  grace  no  mortal  can — 

Such  fruits  are  from  above. 

But  O,  to  hear  the  converts  sing, 

And  shout  with  joyful  voice — 
To  hear  them  pray,  and  praise  their  King, 

The  Angels  must  rejoice. 

'Tis  here  they  tell  what  God  has  done- 
Snatched  them  from  sin  and  death  ; 

And  how  they  will,  in  time  to  come, 
For  Him  employ  their  breath. 

'Tis  here  they  go  from  strength  to  strength, 

And  mount  on  eagle  wing  ; 
Rejoicing  to  arrive  at  length, 

Where  saints  and  seraphs  sing. 

With  eagerness  they  catch  the  Word, 

That  makes  their  duty  plain ; 
And  cling,  by  faith,  unto  the  Lord, 

Nor  fear  reproach  and  pain. 


'32  POEMS    ON   VARIOUS    SUBJECTS 

The  little  band  increases  fast, 
And  sinners  crowd  the  door  : 

The  glorious  time  has  come  at  last — 
O,  Lord,  we  plead  for  more. 

I  love  in  such  a  place  to  dwell — 
These  lambs  to  me  are  dear. 

Glory  to  Jesus  !  for  my  cell — 
Ilosannah  !  that  I'm  here. 

0  !  what  is  liberty  to  me, 
Or  friends,  however  near  ? 

Since  scenes  like  these  I  here  may  see> 
And  things  like  these  can  hear. 

Let  those  who  wish,  seek  worldly  famer 
And  warriors  wonders  tell ; 

But  give  to  me,  reproach  and  shame. 
With  JESUS  and  MY  CEJX. 


TRUSTING    IX   GOD. 

Thrice  happy  is  the  soul 
Who  trusteth  in  the  Lord  ; 

Though  waves  of  trouble  roll, 
Still  lives  upon  His  Word. 

O,  come  and  trust  your  faithful  Lord,, 

And  live  secure  upon  His  Word. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Though  dash  the  raging  seas, 
And  fierce  the  tempests  blow  ; 

That  man  shall  dwell  at  ease, 
Nor  harm  nor  fear  shall  know. 

0,  come  and  trust,  &c. 

Let  hungry  lions  roar, 

And  seek  in  vain  for  food ; 

He  draws  from  grace's  store, 
And  lacks  no  real  good. 

O,  come  and  trust  &c. 

When  threat'ning  clouds  increase,. 
Which  worldly  minds  distress  ; 

A  perfect  heavenly  peace, 
His  spirit  shall  possess. 

O,  come  and  trust,  &c. 

Though  earth  and  hell  unite, 

And  jointly  roar  aloud  ; 
They  never  shall  affright, 

The  soul  that  trusts  in  God. 
O,  come  and  trust,  £c. 

He  fears  no  lion's  den, 
Nor  flaming  furnace  hot ; 

Nor  schemes  to  torture  men, 
That  earth  and  hell  can  plot. 

O,  come  and  trust  &c. 

The  lions'  mouths  aie  closed, 
And  harmless  is  the  flame  ; 
For  trust  in  God  reposed, 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Shall  never  be  in  vain. 
O,  come  and  trust,  &c. 

He  safely  shall  abide 

Beneath  the  Almighty's  wing ; 
And  every  storm  outride, 

And  ever  sweetly  sing. 
O,  come  and  trust,  &c. 

At  home,  or  when  abroad, 

Upon  the  sea  or  land ; 
The  mighty,  faithful  God, 

Will  keep  him  in  His  hand. 
O,  come  and  trust,  &c. 

On  Him  roll  all  your  care. 

Your  burden  and  your  grief; 
In  faith  pour  out  your  prayer 

And  you  shall  have  relief. 
O,  come  and  trust,  &c. 

God  will  the  widow  bless — 
Alive  her  children  keep — 

Relieve  them  in  distress, 

And  comfort  when  they  weep. 

O,  come  and  trust,  &c. — 

In  every  state  most  blest, 

And  happy  white  below; 
And  then,  forever  rest, 

From  sorrow,  pain  and  woe. 
O,  come  and  trust  your  faithful  Lord, 
And  live  secure  upon  His  Word. 


BIRTH-DAY  KEFLE  CTION.    No.  2. 

Another  year  has  rolled  away, 
And  now,  my  soul,  let  us  survey 

The  goodness  of  the  Lord ; 
Great  things,  indeed,  He's  done  for  thee — 
Though  I'm  in  prison,  tJtou  art  free, 

His  mercies  now  record. 

How  quickly  have  thy  moments  fled  ! 
How  many  numbered  with  the  dead, 

And  gone  their  Judge  to  meet ! 
Whilst  thou,  unworthy  as  thou  art, 
Wast  shielded  from  each  fiery  dart, 

Thy  Saviour's  love  to  speak ! 

'Tis  He  has  cheered  thee  'mid  the  gloom, 
Turned  all  thy  midnight  into  noon, 

And  fed  thee  with  His  love  ; 
Quelled  all  thy  doubts  and  rising  fears, 
Amid  temptations,  scoffs  and  sneers, 

And  lifted  thee  above. 

When  barred  from  His  own  house,  so  dear, 
He  made  thy  cell  a  house  of  prayer, 

And  here  His  power  displayed — 
By  bringing  sinners  to  His  feet, 
And  giving  saints  communion  sweet, 

While  converts  sung  and  prayed. 

A  year  of  wonders  it  has  been — 
Such  glorious  things  as  thou  hast  seen 


56  POEMS    OX   VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Should  cause  tlice  to  adore  ; 
O,  Lord,  not  unto  me,  the  praise, 
But  to  Thy  name,  in  thankful  lays, 

Both  now  and  evermore. 

Encouraged  by  Thy  mercies  past, 
I'll  trust  Thy  wisdom  to  the  last, 

And  live  secure  on  Thee  ; 
Ten  thousand  trials  in  my  way — 
But  Thou  hast  been  my  strength  and  stay. 

And  evermore  wilt  be. 

No  earthly  kin  has  ventured  near, 
To  visit  Thy  poor  servant  here, 

But  Thou  hast  not  forsook ; 
I  have  the  promise  of  Thy  word, 
That  Thou  wilt  ne'er  forsake  me,  Lortl — 

And  unto  Thee,  I  look. 

Anew,  I  lay  me  at  Thy  feet, 
A  living  sacrifice — to  meet 

What  boundless  love  shall  give  ; 
To  follow  still  my  Prison  toil, 
Or  labor  on  some  heathen  soil, 

And  bid  the  dying  live. 

Speak,  Lord,  Thy  servant  heareth  now — 
My  will  to  Thine,  doth  sweetly  bow ; 

O,  gird  me  for  the  race ; 
To  bear  afflictions,  pains,  and  death — 
For  Thee,  employ  my  latest  breath, 

And  dwell  before  Thy  face. 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.        57 

My  days  like  weavers'  shuttles  fly — 
My  weeks,  and  months  roll  quickly  by, 

And  never  will  return  ; 
Then  what  my  God  points  out  to  do, 
My  soul,  with  all  your  might  pursue. 
And  every  trifle  spurn. 

Thy  earthly  work  may  all  be  done, 
Before  another  birth-day  come, 

And  thou  be  snatched  away; 
With  thee,  though  it  may  seem  but  noon, 
This  year,  may  crawling  worms  consume 

Thy  tenement  of  clay. 

Thy  fleeting  moments  then  improve, 
And  faithful  be  in  works  of  love, 

While  here  below  you  stay  ; 
The  wicked  warn,  and  comfort  saints — 
And  soon,  what  fancy  never  paints, 

You'll  see  in  endless  day. 

Let  all  thy  thoughts  be  lifted  high, 
To  mansions  far  above  the  sky, 

Where  saints  and  angels  dwell  ; 
Tread  all  the  world  beneath  thy  feet, 
And  let  a  true  example,  speak 

What  words  can  never  tell. 

Where'er  I  am — whate'er  I  do, 
Help  me,  O,  Lord,  to  keep  in  view 

Thy  glory  and  my  end : 
My  aims  and  interests  be  one, 


58        POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

With  Thee  the  Father,  and  the  Son— 
With  Thine  my  efforts  blend. 

And  when  my  days  on  earth  are  o'er, 
Keceive  me  to  that  happy  shore, 

To  join  the  blood- washed  throng ; 
The  praise  and  glory  shall  be  thine, 
While  we  adore  Thy  love  divine, 

And  sing  Redemption's  song. 
Aug.  12,  1843. 


EXPLANATION  OF  Ps.  110:5. 

When  God,  with  wondrous  power  and  love, 
Shall  pour  His  spirit  from  above, 
To  rouse  the  nations  from  their  sleep, 
That  they  the  mighty  God  may  seek — - 
May  dash  their  idols  to  the  ground, 
And  call  for  help,  with  piercing  sound. 

His  people,  then,  with  willing  heart, 
Will  joyfully  consent  to  part 
With  kindred,  country,  home  and  friends, 
To  go  where'er  their  Master  sends — 
Nor  will  they  stop  for  toil  or  pain, 
But  haste  to  spread  Emanuel's  name. 

They'll  come  as  noble  volunteers, 
Constrained  by  neither  bribes  nor  fears  ; 
But  free-will  offerings,  they  will  be, 
Responding,  "  Here  am  I,  send  me" — • 


POEMS    ON   VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  .59 

Arrayed  in  robes  of  righteousness, 
And  beautified  with  holiness. 

No  more  will  converts  then,  "befeic, 

But  numerous  as  the  drops  of  dew, 

Which  silently  distil  at  night, 

And  brought  to  view  by  morning  light — 

So  great  a  number,  vast  amount, 

No  human  powers  can  ever  count. 

From  every  nation,  kindred,  tongue, 
The  rich  and  poor,  the  old  and  young — 
Millions  unnumbered,  haste  to  find 
The  great  Redeemer  of  mankind — 
And  falling  at  his  feet,  adore, 
And  love  and  praise,  forevermore. 

The  morning  rays  already  shine, 

So  near  at  hand  this  glorious  time. 

Those  "  volunteers"  O,  where  are  they, 

To  usher  in  meridian  day  ? 

Up,  Christians,  up,  and  sally  forth. 

From  East  to  West,  from  South  to  North. 


ETHIOPIA.     Ps.  68:31.     87:4.     Zeph.  3:10. 

The  following  was  suggested  by  reading  a  part  of  a  letter 
from  bro.  Wilson,  Gaboon  River,  on  a  small  bit  of  newspaper. 

To  Africa's  center  where  Ethiops  dwell, 
With  ardent  emotions  my  bosom  doth  swell, 


CO  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

To  go  and  make  known  the  free  offers  of  God, 
"  Redemption  and  pardon,  through  Jesus'  blood. 

From  thence  came  the  eunuch  to  hear  the  glad  word, 
Believed,  and  embraced  his  once  crucified  Lord — 
Returned  to  his  country  the  news  to  proclaim, 
"  Salvation  !  Salvation  !  through  faith  in  his  name." 

There  Matthew  once  labored,  and  preached  for  their  good 
While  many  believed  him,  yet  others  withstood — 
They  seized  him  in  rage,  'mid  contention  and  strife, 
And  following  his  Master,  he  gave  up  his  life. 

But  darkness  has  long  since  enveloped  the  whole, 
And  Satan  usurped  undisputed  control ; 
Their  country,  for  ages,  to  white  men,  unknown, 
While  virtue,  religion,  and  knowledge  have  flown. 

Yet  thus  saith  the  promise  concerning  this  land, 
"  In  prayer  unto  God,  she  shall  soon  stretch  her  hand" — 
Her  idols,  in  haste,  from  their  seats  shall  be  hurled, 
The  banner  of  Jesus  in  triumph  unfurled. 

Her  vain  superstitions  shall  vanish  like  dew, 
And  converts,  by  thousands,  for  mercy  shall  sue  ; 
Her  kings,  chiefs  and  subjects,  shall  all  flock  around, 
To  hear  with  attention,  the  gospel's  glad  sound. 

The  laborer  here,  may  be  sure  of  success, 
The  word  has  gone  forth,  and  Jehovah  will  bless ; 
On  His  faithful  promise  His  children  may  lean, 
And  glorious  fulfilments  by  all  shall  be  seen. 


POEMS    ON   VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  61 

A  nation  superior  in  powers  of  mind, 
In  this  unexplored  and  vast  region  we  find; 
With  noble  appearance,  and  feelings  humane, 
Where  Slavery,  and  traders  in  men,  never  came. 

Again  saith  the  promise,  «  This  man  was  born  there/' 
And  that  one,  and  many,  in  answer  to  prayer  : 
«  From  thence  shall  My  suppliants  come,  humbly  to  brin* 
Their  offerings  to  Me,  their  Redeemer  and  King." 

She  once  was  a  country  of  far-famed  renown, 
Where  honor,  and  riches,  and  learning  were  found ; 
Again  shall  she  rise,  and  far  brighter  shall  shine, 
When  blessed  with  the  Gospel,  the  treasure  divine. 

Already  she  stretches  her  hands  for  our  help, 
O,  where  is  the  heart  that  refuses  to  melt  ? 
My  soul  leaps  to  tell  them  of  Calvary's  scene, 
O,  bear  me,  ye  winds,  and  ye  waters  to  them. 
PEXITEXTIAKY,  Aug.  31,  1843. 

PERSECUTION  FOR  CHRIST'S  SAKK. 
What  though  the  wicked  hate  me  sore, 
And  arrows  sharp,  in  vollies  pour, 

Because  I  love  and  serve  my  God  ? 

They  treated  thus  my  Saviour  dear 

And  this  shall  quell  my  every  fear, 

"  I  tread  the  path  my  Jesus  trod." 

What  though  they  scoff,  revile,  menace, 
And  think  to  load  me  with  disgrace, 
While  human  furies  wait  their  nod  ? 
4 


(•-2  l-OEAIS    OXVAHIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

For  me,  my  Saviour  bore  tlie  same, 
And  I  with  patience,  for  His  name, 
Will  cheerful  tread  tin  path  He  trod. 

Though  they  imprison,  bind  and  beat, 
Then  treftd  me  down  beneath  their  feet, 

And  taunting,  ask,  «  Where  is  your  God  .' 
I'll  view  my  Saviour's  thorny  crown, 
The  blood  profusely  pouring  down— 
t/nM  in  the  path  He  trod. 


And  though  they  join  in  angry  strife, 
While  naught  will  quell  them  but  my  lite, 

As  greedily  they  drink  my  blood  ; 
My  dear  Redeemer  thus  was  slain, 
And  suffering,  I  shall  with  Him  reign, 

By  following  in  the  path  He  trod. 

\  countless  host  already  gone, 

Are  wearing  now  the  Martyr's  crown, 

And  nearest  to  the  throne  of  God  ; 
They  shine  the  brightest  of  the  train, 
And  loudest  praise  the  eternal  name, 

Who  led  them  in  the  path  He  trod. 

Then  welcome  dungeons,  pain,  and  shame, 
Yea,  welcome  death,  for  Jesus'  name, 
And  bear  me  to  His  blest  abode; 

In  tribulation  I'll  rejoice- 
In  persecution  tune  my  voice, 

And  ylory  in  the  path  He  trod. 
SEPT.  28,1843. 


PRAYER  FOR    THE  OPPRE  SSED. 

O,  'tis  a  doleful  sound  I  hear— 
The  cries  of  those  in  deep  distress  ; 

Millions  in  this  our  land,  so  dear,   . 
Whom  hardened,  cruel  men  oppress ! 

Great  God,  behold  their  wretched  state, 
And  listen  to  the  sighs  they  pour ; 

Do  Thou  their  iron  fetters  break, 
And  bid  their  sorrows  be  no  more. 

Let  every  effort,  Lord,  be  blest, 
To  take  the  galling  yoke  away ; 

O,  hear  our  prayers,  and  give  them  rest, 
Come,  Lord,  O,  come,  without  delay. 

The  work  is  Thine — we  look  to  Thee, 
And  on  Thy  arm  alone  we  lean  ; 

0,  set  the  mourning  captive  free, 
And  let  Thy  mighty  power  be  seen. 


MIRACLES  OF  CHRIST. 

I  began  to  arrange  the  miracles,  poetically,  in  chronological 
order,  but  did  not  get  through  with  them.  And  the  poetry  of 
those,  I  did  attempt,  is  so  very  poor,  1  am  almost  ashamed  to  in 
sert  them.  It  is  a  sufficient  apology  to  say  they  were  composed 
in  a  prison,  amid  multiplied  labors  and  perplexities — again,  had 
I  chosen  my  own  language,  the  poetry  might  have  been  better, 
but  my  object  was,  to  use,  as  much  as  possible,  the  exact  lan 
guage  of  the  Bible.  And  I  studied  to  express  them  as  concisely 
as  could  be  don^,  and  give  the  facts.  With  this  explanation,  I 
iii&ort  a  part  of  them. 

THE  RULER'S  SON  HEALED. 
A  Ruler  heard  that  Christ  had  come, 
And  cried, "  come  down  and  heal  my  son — 

He's  at  the  point  of  death." 
"  You  -won't  believe  that  I  am  He — 
Till  signs  und  wonders  you  shall  see — 

Who  holds  your  mortal  breath." 

The  Nobleman  did  thus  reply, 

*'  Come  down,  Sir,  ere  my  child  shall  die, 

O,  come  without  delay." 
"  Go  home — your  son  's  alive  and  well" — 
The  servants  haste  the  news  to  tell — 

He  finds  it  as  they  say. 


THE  CENTURION'S   SERVANT  HEALED. 
"  With  palsy  sick,  my  servant  lies, 
In  torments  great,  with  bitter  cries" — 

Said  the  centurion. 
"  I'll  come  and  heal  him,  if  you  wish, 
I  love  the  helpless  to  assist ' — 
'Twas  at  Capernaum. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

"  I  am  unworthy  you  should  come 
Beneath  the  shelter  of  my  dome, 

But  speak,  and  he'll  be  healed ; 
My  soldiers  do  whate'er  I  say — 
My  servant,  promptly  does  obey — 

Thus  plagues  to  Thee  do  yield." 

"  Go  back — and  as  thou  hast  believed, 
So  shall  thy  servant  be  relieved — 

Such  faith,  I  have  not  found." 
The  servant,  in  that  very  hour, 
Was  rescued  from  the  palsy's  power, 

And  made  entirelv  sound. 


CHRIST    ASLEEP    ON    THE    TILLOW. 

Once,  on  the  Lake  Genncsaret, 
Wearied  with  constant  toils,  He  slept — 

A  mighty  tempest  blew  ; 
The  waves  arose,  and  every  surge, 
Did  quite  their  little  bark  immerge — 

They  knew  not  what  to  do. 

In  haste,  they  woke  Him  from  His  sleep, 
"  Master,  we  perish  in  the  deep, 

Lord,  save  us  or  we  die." 
He  rose,  and  bid  the  winds  "  Be  still"— 
The  raging  billows  at  his  will, 

Are  calm,  and  quiet  lie. 


Till]    MANIAC    HEALED. 

A  man  with  devils  long  possessed, 
Was  naked,  'mong  the  tombs,  distressed, 
And  cried  both  night  and  day  ; 


06        POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

So  fierce,  and  cut  with  stones,  insane — 
They  could  not  bind  him  with  a  chain, 
And  none  dare  pass  that  way. 

At  Jesus'  feet  he  humbly  bow'd, 
Beseeching  Him,  in  accents  loud, 

"  I  pray  torment  me  not ;" 
"  What  is  your  name  V"     "  Tis  '  legion,'  Sir, 
For  such  a  number  sure  we  are." 

"  Ye  spirits  foul,  come  out." 

"  May  we  the  herd  of  swine  possess, 
That 's  feeding  in  the  wilderness  ?" 

"  I  suffer  it  to  be." 

They  all  plunged  quickly  o'er  a  steep, 
And  overwhelmed  in  the  deep, 

They  perished  in  the  sea. 


THE    MAN,  LET  DOWN  THROUGH  THE  TILING,  HEALED. 

Down  through  the  tiling  where  He  stood, 
They  let  a  palsied  man,  for  good, 

As-  on  his  bed  he  laid ; 
"  Cheer  up,  and  now  courageous  be, 
Thy  sins  are  all  forgiven  thee," 

The  blessed  Saviour  said. 

But  some  were  there,  who  thought  within, 
"  Who  can,  but  God,  forgive  a  sin  ? 

He  doth  blasphemous  talk." 
"  But  which  is  easier  to  say, 
I  pardon  all  thy  sins  to-day, 

Or  take  thy  bed  and  walk  ?" 


POEMS    OX   VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  67 

That  I  am  GOD,  you  all  shall  know — 
Have  power  to  pardon  sins,  below, 

And  have  not  impious,  talked  ; 
"  Arise,  take  up  thy  bed— go  home  ;" 
No  sooner  was  it  said,  than  done — 

He  took  it  up,  and  walked. 

•TAIRUS'  DAUGHTER,  AND    A    WOMAN  HAVING   BLOODY 
FLUX,     HEALED. 

Jairus  came,  and  falling  down, 

He  earnest  cried,  "my  daughter,  home, 

Lies  at  the  point  of  death  ; 
But  come,  and  on  her  lay  Thy  hand, — 
She  shall  be  healed  at  Thy  command, 

And  live,  because  Thou  saith." 

But  as  they  went,  and  people  pressed, 
A  certain  woman,  sore  distressed 

Twelve  years,  with  bloody  ilow — 
Had  suffered  much,  and  spent  her  all. 
Nor  bettered  was,  by  doctors  all, 

But  rather  worse  did  grow. 

She  came  within  the  press,  behind, 
TTith  confidence  in  her  own  mind, 

A  touch  would  heal  the  plague — 
She  found  it  as  she  had  believed, 
And  felt  immediately  relieved — 

At  once,  the  fountain  stayed. 

"Who  touched  my  clothes  ?"  the  Saviour  cried; 
In  vain,  the  woman  strove  to  hide, 
Sh3  caniG,  and  told  her  cas3  ; 


03  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

"Fear  not,  ray  daughter,  go  in  peace, 
"Your  faith  has  gained  you  this  release,' 
O,  cultivate  this  grace. 

Then,  certain  to  the  Ruler  said, 
"  Thy  little  daughter  now  is  dead, 

Why  longer  trouble  Him  ?" 
"Be  not  afraid,  but  just  BELIEVE, 
And  your  request  you  shall  receive  — 
not  a  doubt  within." 


The  minstrels  wept,  and  wailed  sore, 
He  put  them  forth,  and  shut  the  door, 

But  let  the  Parents  view  ; 
"  Damsel,  I  say  to  thee,  arise  !" 
Her  spirit  came,  she  ope'd  her  eyes, 

And  walked  with  vi^or  new. 


TWO    BLIND    MEX,    HEALED. 

Two  blind  men  followed,  crying  thus, 
u  Thou  Son  of  David,  pity  us, 

Have  mercy,  now  to-day." 
"  Think  ye,  I'm  able  thus  to  do  ?" 
"  Yea,  Lord,  Thou  art,  and  willing  too ; 

With  confidence  we  pray." 

"  As  you  believe,  so  it  shall  be, 
According  to  your  faith,  HOAV  see ;" 

His  fingers  touched  their  eyes — 
Their  sight  was  pcifjct ;  and  in  haste, 
They  spread  Hi*  fame  tirough  all  the  place, 

Exciting  great  surpiije. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  G9 

A  MAX    HEALED   AT    THE    POOL    BETIIESDA. 

When  to  Bethesda's  pool  lie  came, 
Where  lay  the  withered,  blind,  and  lame, 

Each  waiting  for  a  cure  ; 
He  saw  one,  in  a  helpless  state, 
Who  thus  had  been,  years  thirty-eight, 

And  could  no  help  secure. 

"  Wilt  thou,  sir,  be  made  whole  of  this  ?" 
u  I've  none  to  pity  or  assist, 

That  I  the  pool  may  find  ; 
But  while  I  come,  another  steps 
Before  me,  and  the  blessing  gets, 

While  I  am  left  behind." 

"  Arise  and  walk — take  up  thy  bed !" 
At  once  he  did   as  Jesus  said, 

And  from  disease  was  free. 
"  More  watchful  be  than  heretofore — 
Thou  now  art  whole — go,  sin  no  more, 

Lest  worse  should  come  on  thee." 


THE  WITHERED  HAXD  RESTORED. 

As  in  the  synagogue  He  taught, 
A  poor  man  his  attention  caught— 

A  withered  hand  had  he ; 
The  Pharisees,  with  evil  mind, 
Watched,  with  the  Scribes,  some  fault  to  find, 

But  he  their  thoughts  did  see. 

14  Rise  up,  stand  forth,"  the  Saviour  said ; 
The  man,  at  once,  his  word  obeyed, 
And  stood  where  all  could  view  ; 


70  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

"  One  thing,  yc  Jews,  to  ask,  I  have, 
Evil  or  good,  destroy  or  save, 
Which;  on  the  Sabbath,  do  ?" 

"Your  sheep,  upon  the  Sabbath  day, 
You  lift  from  pits,  without  delay; 

A  man  is  worth  much  more  ! 
Stretch  out  thy  hand,  and  be  it  sound." 
He  did  so,  and  'twas  whole,  he  found, 

From  all  he  felt  before. 

TILE    MAX,    BLIND    AND    DUMB,    HEALED. 

While  many,  for  a  cure  did  come, 

They  brought  a  man,  both  blind  and  dumb, 

And  sought  for  him  rc'ief ; 
He  healed  him,  in  his  mercy  great, 
The  blind  and  dumb  both  saw  and  spake, 

For  such  was  their  belief. 

THE    MULTITUDE    MIRACULOUSLY   FED,   ETC. 

The  people  came  from  far  and  near, 
Who  of  his  wondrous  works  did  hear— 

A  number  very  great ; 
He  saw,  and  with  compassion  moved, 
Healed  all  their  sick,  their  sorrows  soothed, 

And  of  his  kingdom  spake. 

At  evening  his  disciples  said, 

«  Send  them  away  to  buy  some  bread, 

For  they  have  nought  to  cat ; 
In  all  the  towns,  and  country  round, 
Where  food  and  lodging  may  be  found, 

Let  them  refreshment  seek." 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  71 


"  They  have  no  need   to  go,"  said  He, 
"  But  what  they  need  to  eat,  give  ye, 

A  free,  and  full  supply." 
"  Two  hundred  penny  worth  of  bread, 
Will  not  suffice  them,  to  be  fed ; 

Shall  we  depart,  and  buy  ?" 

"  How  many  loaves  of  bread  have  you  ?" 
"  But  five,  and  little  fishes  two." 

"Go  bring  thorn  here  to  Me  ; 
Arrange  the  people  on  the  grass, 
Fifties  and  hundreds  in  a  class, 

And  you  My  power  shall  see  !" 

When  preparations  thus  were  made, 

He  blessed,  and  brake  the  fish,  and  bread, 

Among  them  to  divide  : 
The  chosen,  waited  on  each  one, 
And  all  partook,  till  they  were  done, 

And  fully  satisfied. 

"  Now  gather  Tip  the  fragments  clean, 
That  nought  be  lost — to  waste  is  sin  :" 

Twelve  baskets  did  they  fill ; 
There  were  five  thousand  men,  about, 
Women  and  children,  counted  not, 

A  number  greater  still. 

But  when  they  all  were  sent  away, 
Up  in  the  mount  He  went  to  pray, 

No  mortal  with  Him  there : 
With  heaven,  He  had  communion  sweet, 


72  POEMS    OX    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

In  this,  His  favorite  retreat, 
So  well  befitting  prayer. 

The  Twelve  were  now  upon  the  Lake, 
And  toiling,  in  a  wearied  state, 

Against  the  winds  that  blew  ; 
But  near  the  morning,  they  espy 
One  walking  on  the  water,  nigh — 

Not  one  his  Master  knew. 

When  all  took  fright,  and  cried  for  fear. 
Supposing  that  a  ghost  was  near, 

They  heard  His  well  known  voice  ; 
"  Be  not  afraid,  'tis  I,  your  Lord — 
Cheer  up,  and  now  believe  my  word  :" 

This  made  them  all  rejoice. 

Then  on  the  water,  Peter  walked, 

To  meet  his  Lord,  who  with  him  talked — 

But  ah  !  his  faith  was  weak ; 
The  winds  arose,  and  billows  dashed, 
And  sinking  down,  he  quickly  asked, 

"  Lord,  save  me  from  the  deep." 

He  reached  His  hand,  and  Peter  caught — 
"  O  thou  of  little  faith,  why  doubt  ? 

What  unbelief  is  this?". 
When  in  the  ship,  they  humbly  bowed, 
And  owned,  "  Thou  art  the  Son  of  God," 

For  all  the  winds  did  cease. 

When  to  the  land  they  safe  had  come, 

And  it  was  round  the  country  known, 

There  flocked  the  rich  and  poor ; 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS  73 

Where  He,  through  towns  or  cities  went, 
The  people  all  were  most  intent, 
A  blessing  to  secure. 

They  brought  their  sick  without  delay, 
And  laid  before  Him  in  the  way, 

That  they  His  clothes  might  touch  ; 
A  perfect  cure,  they  all  received, 
For  so  they  heartily  believed — 

And  there  was  gladness  much. 

THE    SYROPHEXICIAN    WOMAN'S     DAUGHTER    HEALED 

A  Gentile  woman  came,  and  cried, 
"  Have  mercy,  Son  of  David's  tribe, 

My  daughter's  vexed  sore." 
He  answered  not,  nor  seemed  to  care, 
Which  but  increased  her  zeal  in  prayer, 

To  importune  Him  more. 

"  Send  her  away,"  some  did  advise — 
"  She  follows  after  us  with  cries, 

Bless  her,  that  she  may  leave." 
"  But  I  am  sent,"  said  He, "  to  heal, 
The  long  lost  sheep  of  Israel, 

And  them,  I  must  relieve." 

Then  nearer  still,  the  suppliant  came, 
And  falling  down,  besought  again — 

"  Lord  help  me,  or  I  die." 
"  'Twont  do,  to  take  the  children's  bread 
And  give  to  worthless  dogs,  instead," 

The  Saviour  did  reply. 


74       POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

"  That's  truth,  my  Lord,  but  yet  they  eat 
The  crumbs  around  the  children's  feet — 

O !  give  me  these,  I  pray ; 
A  loathsome  dog,  you  me,  may  call, 
Or  lower  than  creation  all — 

But  do  not  say  me  nay  !" 

"O  !  w  man,  great  is  this  thy  faith, 
For  this,  thy  daughter  now  is  safe, 

The  devil  is  gone  out." 
She  came,  and  found  it  as  .He  said, 
Her  daughter  laid  upon  the  bed, 

And  well,  beyond  a  doubt. 


THE  DEAF  AND  DUMB  MAN  HEALED. 

"O  Lord,  behold  the  man  we've  brought, 
He  cannot  hear,  nor  can  he  talk, 

O  pity  his  sad  case." 
The  Savi  >r,  touched  with  tenderness, 
Aside  conducts  him  from  the  press, 

To  a  retired  place. 

He  put  His  finger  in  the  ears, 

That  stopped  had  been,  so  many  years, 

And  spit,  and  touched  his  tongue ; 
Then  looking  up  to  Heaven,  He  sighed, 
With  emphasis,  "Ephphatha,"  cried, 

"Be  opened,  and  unstrung." 

Amazing  power  !  O,  who  would  think '! 
At  once,  he  heard,  and  spoke  distinct, 
And  Jesus'  love  did  tell. 


POEMS    ON   VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  75 

From  many  there  arose  a  shout, 
Ringing,  and  echoing  round  about, 
"  He  hath  done  all  things  well." 


THE   FOUR   THOUSAND  FED,   ETC. 

As  in  the  mountains  once,  He  taught, 

Great  crowds  arrived,  who  with  them  brought, 

The  lame,  the  dumb,  and  blind, 
The  maimed,  the  helpless,  and  the  weak — 
And  cast  them  down  at  Jesus'  i'eet, 

With  sick  of  every  kind. 

O  !  now  is  witnessed  such  a  scene, 
As  ne'er  before  on  earth  has  been, 

And  fancy  fails  to  paint ; 
Deaf  ears  are  opened — dumb  men  speak, 
The  maimed  are  whole,  the  halting,  leap, 

And  healed  is  each  complaint. 

He  called  the  twelve  to  Him,  and  said, 
"  This  vast  assembly  have  no  bread — 

On  them  my  pity  moves  ; 
And  of  the  multitude,  afle  some, 
Who  have  from  distant  countries  come, 

To  hear  the  joyful  news. 

Three  days  have  passed,  and  food  they've  none, 
Now  should  I  send  them  fasting,  home, 

They'd  faint  along  the  way ; 
No,  we  must  feed  them  e'er  they  start ; 
Then  let  them  joyfully  depart, 

And  ever  bless  this  day." 


7G        POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

"  But,  Master,  whence  shall  we  procure 
So  great  provision  ?     For  we're  poor, 

And  in  a  desert  place." 
"  How  many  loaves  of  bread  have  you  ?" 
"  Seven,  and  little  fishes  few, 

But  these  are  scarce  a  taste." 

He  then  arranged  them  on  the  ground, 
In  ranks,  and  companies  around, 

Convenient  to  be  fed  ; 
Then  took  into  His  arms  the  food, 
And  looking  up  in  prayerful  mood, 

He  blessed  the  fish  and  bread. 

The  waiters  were  His  chosen  band, 
Who  took  it,  broken,  from  His  hand, 

And  gave  to  every  one ; 
So  wondrous  did  it  multiply, 
For  «?/,  there  was  a  full  supply, 

And  much  was  left,  when  done. 

For  seven  baskets  full,  indeed, 

Of  fragments  which  they  did  not  need, 

Were  gathered  up  with  care ; 
Four  thousand  mea  were  satisfied — 
Women  and  children,  much  beside, 

The  rich  repast  did  share. 

THE    EYES    OF    A    BLIND    MAN    OPENED. 

A  blind  man,  by  his  friends,  was  brought, 
Who  for  him,  sight  from  Jesus  sought, 
The  Former  of  the  eye  : 


1 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  77 

Without  the  town,  the  man  He  led, 
Spit  on  his  eyes — touched  them,  and  said, 
"  Can  you  now  aught  espy  ?" 

Then,  looking  round  awhile,  said  he, 
"  The  men,  as  walking  trees,  I  see, 

Removing  there,  and  here  ;" 
Again  the  Saviour  touched  his  eyes — 
Again  he  looked — and  with  surprise, 

Saw  every  man  quite  clear. 

The  reader  will  observe,  that  there  are  a  number  of  verv  in 
teresting  miracles,  which  have  not  been  poeticised  ;  but  as  the 
work  was  not  completed  in  prison,  I  will  not  now  compose,  and 
introduce  them. 


DEATH    OF    REUBEN   RICE. 

[BY  REQUEST  OF  HIS  SISTER.] 

Dear  brother,  no  longer  thy  form  I  behold, 
Now  hid  from  my  sight  in  the  grave,  pale  and  cold, 
There  rest  thou,  in  quiet,  from  earth's  raging  storms, 
From  evil  secure,  in  its  multiplied  forms. 

In  youth,  thou  art  called  from  thy  friends  to  remove, 
But  'tis  to  unite  with  the  ransomed  above ; 
There,  there  we  will  greet  thee  in  raptures  unknown, 
And  join  with  the  armies  around  the  white  throne. 

Full  well  I  remember  thy  prayers,  and  thy  tears, 
For  poor  careless  sinners,  who  met  thee  with  sneers ; 
Thy  zeal  and  devotion  to  Christ,  and  His  cause, 
From  that  precious  moment,  thou  did'st  it  espouse.    - 


78  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Thy  love  to  thy  Saviour,  while  here  thou  didst  dwell, 
Was  such,  as  thou  could'st  not  find  language  to  tell ; 
But  now,  in  seraphic  and  heavenly  strains, 
Thou  sweetly  can'st  sound  it   o'er  all  the  bright  pla 

Afflictions,  and  trials,  no  more  shall  annoy— 
Thy  happiness  perfect,  without  an  alloy- 
Thy  Saviour  thou  canst  now  behold,  face  to  face, 
And  feast  evermore  on  the  joys  of  the  place. 

Sing  on,  my  dear  brother-tune  loud  your  sweet  harp, 
I  hope  soon  to  meet  you,  and  never  to  part- 
Til  not  wish  you  back,  but  will  press  on  to  you, 
My  Saviour,  in  glory,  forever  to  view. 


AFFLICTION. 

Composed,  by  request,  for  a  friend  who  was  bereaved  of  her 
ntended  life  companion. 

Father,  I  own  Thy  chastening  hand, 

Which  cuts  my  choicest  comforts  down  ; 

They  come  and  go,  at  thy  command, 

Nor  would  I  mourn,  though  ALL  were  gone. 

'Tis  boundless  LOVE  inflicts  the  stroke, 

And  love  will  also  heal  the  smart ; 
Love  will  bind  up  what  love  has  broke, 

And  pure,  celestial  joys  impart. 

Though  Thou  dost  take  my  dearest  friend, 
The  joy,  and  solace  of  my  days  ; 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.        79 

The  one  expected  to  attend 

With  me,  through  all  life's  winding  ways— 

Thou  more  than  this  wilt  be  to  me, 

A  Father,  friend,  and  brother  dear ; 
And  all  my  cares,  I'll  cast  on  Thee, 

A  kind  Protector,  ever  near. 

For  me,  Thou  knowest  what  is  best, 

And  in  Thy  precious  word,  I'm  told, 
That  "  he  who  trusts  the  Lord,  is  blest, 

And  nothing  good  will  He  withhold." 

"  No  evil  shall  befall  the  just," 

Though  seeming  evils  o'er  them  brood  ; 

"  To  him  who  makes  the  Lord  his  trust, 
They  all  shall  work  his  real  good." 

These  "  light  afflictions,"  short  and  few, 

"  Shall  work  a  weight  of  glory  vast, 
While  heavenly,  unseen  things  I  view, 

And  joys  which  will  forever  last." 

"  The  suffering  days  and  nights  below, 

Are  not  to  be  compared,  with  joy 
And  happiness,  I  soon  shall  know, 

Where  nothing  ever  can  alloy." 

'Tis  well  with  saints,  when  joys  arise, 
'Tis  well  with  them,  when  sorrows  flow  ; 

'Tis  well,  when  darkness  veils  the  skies, 
And  waves  of  trouble,  o'er  them  go. 


80       POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

"Tis  well  with  them,  when  on  the  mount, 
They  feast  on  bleeding,  dying  love ; 

And  'tis  as  well,  in  God's  account, 
When  they  the  fiery  furnace  prove. 

These  trials  are  in  mercy  given, 

To  wean  my  heart  from  things  below — 

To  cleanse  from  sin,  and  fit  for  heaven, 
Whence  all  my  earthly  comforts  flow. 

Then,  Lord,  take  from  me  what  Thou  will, 
Give  sickness,  poverty,  or  shame ; 

I  will  believe  thy  promise  still, 

And  prove  thee  faithful  to  the  same. 

Come  now,  with  comfort,  to  my  soul, 
Bind  up  the  wound,  thy  hand  hath  made  ; 

Apply  the  balm,  and  make  me  whole, 
And  grant  me  every  needed  aid. 


COWPEPv'S  BLANK,  RHYMED. 

My  soul  is  sick,  my  heart  is  stung 
With  every  day's  report  of  wrong, 

And  outrage  in  our  land  ; 
There  is  no  flesh  in  man's  hard  heart, 
That  yields,  and  pities  human  smart — 

It  does  not  feel  for  man. 

The  band  of  Brotherhood,  designed 
By  nature,  to  unite  mankind, 

Is  trampled  in  the  dust ; 
By  wicked,  covetous  desire, 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  81 

'Tis  severed,  as  the  flax,  by  fire, 
And  sacrificed  to  lust ! 

He  finds  his  fellow  with  a  skin, 
Not  colored  as  his  own  has  been, 

But  of  a  darker  dye ; 
And  having  power  t'inflict  the  wrong, 
Dooms  and  devotes  him  as  his  own, 

As  his  own  lawful  prey ! 

Thus  man,  his  brother  man,  devotes, 
Deprives  of  liberty  and  hopes, 

And  all  in  life,  that's  sweet ; 
But,  as  our  nature's  foulest  stain, 
Tasks  him,  and  binds  him  with  a  chain, 

His  victim,  safe  to  keep. 

Exacts  his  daily  sweat  and  toil, 

With  stripes,  that  stain  with  blood  the  soil, 

Nor  heeds  his  groans  the  least ; 
While  Mercy,  with  a  bleeding  heart, 
Would  weep,  to  see  such  cruel  smart 

Inflicted  on  a  beast. 

Then  what  is  man  !  And  who  is  he, 
With  feelings  of  Humanity, 

Be  unaffected  can  ? 
To  see  his  brother  treated  thus, 
That  would  not  hang  his  head,  and  blush, 

To  think  himself  a  man  ? 

I  would  not  have,  to  till  my  ground, 
A  slave,  with  cruel  fetters  bound, 


82  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

And  tremble  when  I  wake ; 
To  carry  me  in  pensive  gloom, 
To  fan  me  while  I  sleep,  at  noon, 

And  on  me  always  wait; 

For  all  the  wealth,  of  rich  and  learned, 
That  sinews,  bought  and  sold,  have  earned, 

Or  all  they  yet  may  gain. 
Far  sooner  be  the  Slave  would  I, 
And  groan  in  bondage  till  I  die, 

Than  bind  on  him  the  chain. 


REJOICINGIN    HOPE. 

At  one  time  the  Warden's  daughter  sent  me  her  slate,  with 
a  ieque>t  that  I  would  write  for  her,  a  composition  on  Hope — 
of  which  the  following  is  a  part. 

The  weary  trav'ler,  far  from  home, 
Where  beasts  of  prey,  the  forests  roam  ; 
While  towering  mountains  intervene, 
And  mighty  rivers  roll  between — 

Remembering  there  his  children  dear, 
His  wife,  and  bosom  friend,  so  near, 
Is  fired  to  press  through  toil  and  pain, 
In  hope  to  meet  them  all  again. 

Through  drenching  rains,  and  piercing  cold, 
He  presses  on,  with  courage  bold, 
O'er  mountains  high,  through  rivers  deep, 
In  hope,  his  family  to  meet. 

Thus  with  the  Christian,  here  below, 
While  trav'ling  through  this  world  of  wo ; 


POEMS    OX    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  83 

By  faith,  he  views  his  heavenly  rest, 
And  smiling  HOPE  inspires  his  breast 

Though  fiery  trials  on  him  press, 
Sharp  sickness,  pain,  or  deep  distress, 
And  waves  of  trouble  o'er  him  roll, 
HOPE  is  the  anchor  of  his  soul. 

It  soothes  his  pains,  and  heals  his  smart, 
Binds  up  his  wounded,  aching  heart ; 
Sweetens  his  toils,  makes  burdens  light, 
And  cheers  him  in  the  darkest  night. 

In  hope,  lie  moulders  in  the  dust, 
In  hope,  of  rising  with  the  Just, 
In  hope,  to  meet  his  Lord  on  high, 
IN  HOPE,  to  reign  above  the  iky. 


LIBERTY  SONG. 

Ye  friends  of  Liberty,  awake, 

And  put  your  armor  on  ; 
With  dauntless  zeal,  your  weapons  take, 

And  bid  your  fears  begone. 

Sound  Argument,  and   Truth,  we  use 

For  weapons,  in  this  war : 
Good  Sense,  and  solid  Reason  choose, 

And  carnal  means  abhor. 

Persuasion,  with  Entreaty  kind, 
And  Information  true ; 


84  POEMS    OJi     VARIOUS     SUBJECTS. 

Faitk  in  the  Lord,  and  Prayer,  we  find, 
Important  weapons  too. 

Let  childrens'  tears,  and  fathers'  sighs, 

Engage  you  to  assist ; 
Let  widows'  groans,  and  orphans'  cries, 

Your  every  power  enlist. 

Enter  the  field,  without  delay  : 

Let  every  nerve  be  strung  : 
The  battle  now,  is  in  array, 

The  conflict  is  begun. 

True-hearted  volunteers,  we  want, 

To  conquer  or  to  die ; 
Whom  dungeons,  mobs,  nor  death  will  daunt, 

And  nought  will  cause  to  fly. 

The  contest  will  be  warm,  severe, 

And  many  brave  may  fall; 
But  courage  take,  our  cause  is  clear, 

Humanity's  loud  call. 

It  is  the  cause  of  Righteousness, 
Of  Justice,  Truth,  and  Love  : 

Our  King  will  doubtless  give  success, 
And  help  us  from  above. 

The  cause  is  God's,  and  must  prevail, 
Though  earth,  and  hell  unite  : 

Emanuel  leads — we  cannot  fail 
To  put  our  foes  to  flight. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  85 

Come,  then,  fear  not,  be  strong  and  bold, 

The  victory  sure  shall  be  ; 
And  soon,  through  earth,  it  shall  be  told, 

That  all  our  land  is  free. 

True,  faithful  soldiers,  one  and  all, 

A  rich  reward  shall  share ; 
And  those  who  in  the  combat  fall, 

A  Martyr's  crown  shall  wear. 

Up  !  Freemen,  up  !  and  all  unite 

To  set  the  Captive  free : 
Trusting  in  God,  exert  your  might, 

AND  SOUND  THE  JUBILEE. 


THE  CHRISTIAN  MOTHER'S  PRAYER. 

GESTATION. 

Behold  Thy  handmaid,  now,  O  Lord ! 
"  Be  it  according  to  Thy  word," 

And  teach  me  how  to  go ; 
Hold  Thou  my  hand,  guide  every  step, 
That  nought  I  do,  may  ill  affect, 

The  tender  Embryo. 

Keep  me  from  hurtful  food  or  dress. 
And  all  that  will  the  mind  depress — • 

Preserve  me  calm,  and  mild  ; 
Thy  gift,  prepare  me  to  receive, 
Thy  faithful  promise  to  believe, 

And  train  for  Thee,  the  child. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 
BIRTH. 

Father,  this  child  is  given  by  Thee, 
And  a  free  offering  it  shall  be, 

To  serve  Thee  all  its  days ; 
No  right,  or  title  do  I  claim, 
But  consecrate  it  to  Thy  name, 

To  live,  but  for  Thy  praise. 

Help  me  its  precious  soul  to  prize, 
And  earthly  fame  and  wealth,  despise, 

Extravagance  and  show ; 
To  feel  that  every  word  and  step, 
And  every  look,  will  much  affect, 

Its  future  joy  or  woe. 

Lord,  give  me  strength,  from  day  to  day, 
To  train  it  in  Thy  perfect  way, 

For  endless  bliss  above  : 
O,  make  me  patient,  kind  and  firm, 
From  my  example,  may  it  learn, 

Supremely  Thee  to  love. 

WASHING. 
This  water  which  I  use  so  oft, 
To  make  the  body  clean  and  soft, 

Will  only  cleanse  the  skin ; 
Thy  blood,  alone,  O  Jesus  dear, 
Avails  to  make  the  nature  clear, 

And  purify  within. 

>  • 
That  blood  apply,  to  cleanse  the  heart, 

To  renovate  in  every  part, 
And  wash  the  soul  from  sin  ; 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.        87 

Each  sinful  passion,  temper  ill, 
Subdue,  and  subject  to  Thy  will, 
And  now  the  work  begin. 

DRESSING. 

Saviour,  do  Thou  my  children  dress 
In  the  pure  robes  of  righteousness, 

With  vestments  clean  and  white  ; 
The  filthy  rags  of  sin  remove, 
With  garments  of  salvation  clothe, 

That  ever  will  shine  bright. 

Take  from  them,  all  the  vain  desire, 
Of  worldly  show,  and  gay  attire, 

Which  carnal  minds  delight ; 
Teach  them  the  ornament  to  seek, 
A  spirit,  humble,  quiet,  meek, 

Well  pleasing  in  Thy  sight. 

FEEDING. 

Teach  them  to  hunger  for  the  bread, 
By  which  our  needy  souls  are  fed, 

And  thirst  for  waters  pure ; 
The  manna,  by  King  Jesus  given, 
"  The  living  bread,"  that  came  from  heaven, 

And  living  streams  secure. 

Give  them  upon  Thy  truth  to  live, 
Thy  flesh  and  blood,  by  faith  receive, 

And  find  it  "  meat  indeed." 
O,  fill  their  souls  with  heavenly  love, 
And  send  their  rations  from  above, 

As  they  may  daily  need. 


88  POHMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

SABBATH. 

Go  with  them  to  Thy  house,  O  Lord, 
Teach  them  to  hear,  and  love  Thy  word, 

And  yield  themselves  to  Thee  ; 
O,  seal  instruction  to  their  mind, 
And  on  their  hearts  thy  precepts  bind, 

That  they  may  holy  be. 

Teach  them  to  reverence  Thy  day, 
Keep  them  from  every  sinful  way, 

Preserve  them  in  thy  fear ; 
Help  them  with  earnestness  to  pray, 
In  all  they  think,  or  do,  or  say, 

Remember  Thou  art  near. 

GOING  TO  SCHOOL. 

While  they  are  absent  from  my  sight, 
Learning,  at  school,  to  read  and  write, 

And  other  useful  things, 
O,  guard  them  with  a  watchful  eye, 
From  every  threat'ning  evil  nigh, 

Beneath  thy  shelt'ring  wings. 

Teach  them  in  thee,  to  place  their  trust, 
And  make  their  pathway  like  the  just, 

That  shineth  more  and  more  ; 
All  youthful  follies  to  despise, 
And  look,  by  faith,  beyond  the  skies, 

To  Canaan's  happy  shore. 

G  O  I  N  G  T  O    BED. 

Now  while  they  take  their  rest  in  sleep, 
And  silent  slumbers  o'er  them  creep, 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  89 

May  Angels  guard  their  bed ; 
Secure  in  thy  paternal  arms, 
Safe  on  thy  breast,  from  all  alarms, 

May  they  recline  their  head. 

When  in  the  morning  they  arise, 
And  lift  to  thee,  their  feeble  cries, 

O,  teach  them  how  to  pray  ; 
Awake  their  souls  to  righteousness. 
That  they  may  after  glory  press, 

And  run  the  heavenly  way. 

I  now  resign  them  to  thy  care, 

To  take  them  from  me  young,  or  spare 

Till  three  score  years,  and  ten ; 
Prepare  them  for  thy  righteous  will, 
And  land  them  safe  on  Zion's  hill, 

For  Jesus'  sake — Amen. 

"SIGNS  OF  THE  TIMES." 

The  nations  in  darkness,  are  waking  from  sleep, 
The  light  of  the  Gospel,  beginning  to  seek; 
Their  blindness  and  vain  superstitions  give  way, 
And  for  the  "  glad  tidings,"  they're  waiting,  to-day. 

The  poor,  wand'ring  "  red  men,"  in  sadness,  who  roam 
Through  vast  dismal  forests,  so  near  to  our  home, 
Are  waiting,  from  us  to  receive  the  glad  word, 
Free  grace,  and  salvation,  through  Jesus  our  Lord. 

From  Isles  of  the  Ocean,  they  send  up  their  cry, 
The  breezes  that  fan  us,  are  wafting  it  nigh ; 


*.)0  fOEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

The  Sandwich  and  Friendly ,have  heard  the  glad  sound, 
And  thousands,  their  idols  have  cast  to  the  ground. 

Still  thousands  are  anxious,  and  call  for  the  light, 
That  safely  will  lead  them  from  error's  dark  night ; 
In  crowds,  vast  and  eager,  they  follow  the  man, 
Who  comes  there  to  publisn  redemption's  blest  plan. 

New  Zealand,  the  Fugees,  Society's  group, 
Madagascar,  Borneo,  and  others  about — 
From  South  Seas,  and  Northern,  the  West,  and  the  East, 
They  wait  for  a  call  to  the  rich  Gospel  feast. 

The  Hindoo  renounces  his  long  cherished  caste, 
Old  Budh  is  deserted,  and  fallen  at  last ; 
Their  minds  are  now  open,  the  Truth  to  receive, 
And  with  them,  the  Burmans,  in  crowds,  will  believe. 

The  vast  field  of  China,  from  Pekin  to  Kong, 
Which  could  not,  by  Christians,  be  entered  so  long, 
Is  now  fully  open,  for  all  who  will  go, 
Mount  Calvary's  scenes  to  its  millions  to  show. 

Its  hundreds  of  millions  will  now  hear  the  word, 
That  makes  their  dumb  idols,  by  all,  lie  abhorr'd; 
They  're  groping  in  darkness,  for  some  one  to  lead, 
And  make  them  acquainted  with  what  they  most  need. 

From  wide-spread  Siberia,  they  urgently  cry, 
And  beg  for  assistance,  before  they  shall  die  ; 
A  few,  the  glad  news  'of  a  Savior  have  heard, 
Whose  souls,  for   their   kindred   and   friends,  are  now 
stirred. 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.        91 

In  Syria  and  Persia,  ten  thousands  will  read, 
For  Bibles  and  books  of  the  Christians  they  plead  ; 
They  hear  with  attention,  and  drink  in  the  truth, 
As  though  sent  from  Heaven,  with  undoubted  proof. 

The  long-scattered  Jews  are  returning  again, 

And  bowing  to  Jesus,  their  crucified  King ; 

His  word  they  receive  as  a  message  from  God, 

And  trust  in  His  precious,  though  once  despised,  blood. 

"The  vail"  is  removing,  the  "blindness"  departs, 
The  Spirit  of  God  is  now  melting  their  hearts ; 
The  days  of  their  exile  will  soon  all  be  fled, 
And  then  the  day  joyful — "  As  life  from  the  dead." 

But  poor,  bleeding  Africa !  so  long  spoiled  and  robbed  ! 

Whose  hearts  with  keen  anguish  and  sorrow  have  throb 
bed— 

Does  no  star  of  gladness  on  tliem  yet  arise, 

To  cheer  up  their  souls,  and  to  banish  their  sighs  ? 

Yes !  glory  to  Jesus! — "the  fields  are  all  white" — 
Their  summer  has  come,  and  the  "harvest  is  ripe  ;" 
The  laborer  here  shall  receive  a  rich  crop, 
From  vallies  and  plains,  and  the  high  mountain  top. 

They  lift  up  their  voices,  and  stretch  forth  the  hand 
To  you,  and  to  me,  and  to  ALL  in  this  land  : 
With  earnest  entreaties,  beseech  us  to  haste, 
And  bring  them  the  news  of  free  gospel  grace. 

From  Capetown,  and  Palmas — Dahomey,  Mt.  Moon, 
The  Senegal,  Gambia,  and  noble  Gaboon ; 


92     POEMS  ON  VAU10US  SUBJECTS. 

From  places  too  numerous  to  mention,  they  cry — 
"Come  over  and  help  us,  before  we  all  die." 

The  World  is  in  motion,  awaking  from  sleep, 
But  Satan  is  striving  all  quiet  to  keep  ; 
He  sends  forth  his  legions  to  lead  those  astray, 
Who  're  anxiously  seeking  to  know  the  right  way. 

What  meaneth,    O !  Christian,    these    "signs    of  the 

times  ?" 

This  anxious  enquiring  'inid  all  tongues  and  climes  ? 
What  say  they  to  you,  as  a  servant  of  God  ? 
"Arise,  and  proclaim  My  salvation  abroad}' 

The  "fullness"  and  "ripeness"  of  nations  has  come, 
And  whate'er  we  do,  must  be  speedily  done : 
To  TRUTH  they  '11  now  listen,  receive  and  obey — 
But  soon  will  grasp  error,  if  yet  we  delay. 

O !  come,  then,  all  lovers  of  God,  and  of  man, 
Assibtin  proclaiming  tha  blood-purchased  plan  ; 
Th:ice  blessed  are  they  who  this  work  freely  choose, 
But  cursed,  like  Meroz,  are  all  who  refuse. 


REDEMPTION     FROM     SIN. 

Come,  all-victorious  Lamb, 
Thou  whose  alone  I  am, 

Come,  rule  my  heart : 
Enter  with  all  Thy  train- 
Let  every  foe  be  slain, 
Without  a  rival  reign 

In  every  part. 


POEMS    ON    VAUIOUS    SUBJECTS.  93 

Subdue  each  vain  desire, 
And  kindle  now  the  fire 

Of  heavenly  love : 
From  sin,  O,  set  me  free, 
That  I  may  holy  be, 
And  worship  only  Thee, 

Here  and  above. 

Wash  me  from  all  my  guilt 
In  Thy  dear  blood  they  spilt 

On  Calvary; 
My  nature  renovate, 
Wholly  anew  create, 
And  make  me,  for  Thy  sake, 

What  I  should  be. 

Thou  all-sufficient  art, 
Then  Thy  rich  grace  impart, 

As  I  have  need  : 
In  strong  temptation's  hour, 
When  Satan  would  devour, 
O !  guard  me  from  his  power, 

And  safely  lead. 

While  from  Thy  house  I'm  barr'd, 
And  trials  press  me  hard, 

Be  Thou  my  stay  ; 
And  be,  as  saith  Thy  word, 
My  "Shield  and  great  reward," 
My  "Light  and  Joy,"  O,  Lord, 

Through  all  the  way. 


94       POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

Help  me  to  watch  and  pray, 
To  serve  Thee  night  and  day, 

And  never  cease. 
When  all  my  toils  are  o'er, 
Receive  me  to  that  shore, 
Where  troubles  come  no  more, 

And  all  is  peace. 


DEATH    IN    A    PENITENTIARY, 

Stretched  on  hi  ;  couch  t  e  wretched  pris'ner  lies, 

His  burdened  bosom  heaves  with  mournful  sighs — 

His  wasted  skeleton  and  pallid  cheek, 

And  sunken  eye,  that  death  is  near,  bespeak. 

He  feels  it — and  the  ''King  of  Terrors"  dreads, 

As  nearer,  and  with  quickening  pace  he  treads : 

In  vain,  on  flattering  hopes  of  life  he  hangs, 

Disease  has  struck  its  deep  envenomed  fangs. 

A  thousand  troubling  thoughts  now  fill  his  mind, 

A  life  of  crime,  and  sins  of  every  kind  ; 

His  guilt  and  condemnation,  too,  appears, 

And  fills  his  soul  with  dark,  foreboding  fea^s. 

In  vain  we  point  him  to  the  Lamb  of  God, 

And  speak  of  pardon  through  His  precious  blood — 

Urge  him,  in  vain,  to  yield,  repent,  believe, 

And  free  salvation  from  the  Lord  receive. 

His  wife,  far  off,  he  wants  to  see  once  more, 

Before  departing  from  this  earthly  shore  : 

Thinks  more  of  kindred,  friends,  and  things  below, 

Than  whither  shall  his  naked  spirit  go — 

And  thinks,  to  die  in  such  a  wretched  place, 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  95 

Will  be  a  stigma,  nothing  can  erase  ; 
O'er  this  he  mourns — on  this  his  mind  doth  dwell, 
While  thus  he  hangs  'twixt  heaven,  earth,  and  hell. 
Poor  man  !  deluded  thus,  and  captive  led 
By  Satan—now  he's  numbered  with  the  dead. 
While  he  delayed,  the  dreaded  monster  came, 
And  drew  the  deadly  bow — nor  missed  his  aim — 
He  fell — But  ah !  he  fell,  no  more  to  rise, 
Till  the  Arch-angel's  trumpet  shakes  the  skies : 
Not  then,  we  fear,  to  dwell  with  saints  in  light — 
But  hear  his  doom,  and  sink  to  endless  night. 
How  dread  !  that  from  this  prison-house  of  wo, 
A  man  should  to  eternal  dungeons  go ! 
O  might  they  now  the  friendly  warning  take, 
And  to  their  Refuge,  Christ,  for  life,  escape. 
Alas!  how  few  the  admonition  heed, 
And  feel  that  they  a  preparation  need  ! 
Careless  they  laugh  and  sport  around  the  dead, 
And  on  the  verge  of  foaming  billows  tread ! 
The  stiffened  corpse  is  put  beneath  the  earth — 
Then,  as  before,  they  join  in  foolish  mirth, 
Till  God,  in  righteous  judgment,  from  on  high, 
Shall  summons  send,  and  call  on  them  to  die  ! ! 


THE     PRISONER'S    PRAYER. 

O  !  gracious  Redeemer,  now  seated  on  high, 

And  circled  with  glory  around — 
Behold  a  poor  worm,  with  a  pitying  eye, 

And  let  Thy  rich  mercy  abound. 


96  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Though  Angels  and  Seraphs  encircle  Thy  throne, 
And  cast  their  bright  crowns  at  Thy  feet ; 

Yet  wilt  Thou  regard  a  poor  prisoner's  groan, 
Who  ventures  Thy  favor  to  seek. 

On  earth  Thou  wast  hated,  derided,  and  slain, 

"And  tempted  in  all  points  as  we :" 
That  Thou,  in  our  trials,  temptations  and  pain, 

"A  merciful"  Savior  might  be. 

To  Thee,  then,  I  come,  to  unbosom  my  heart, 

And  cast  upon  Thee  all  my  care  ; 
Assured  Thou  wilt  not  bid  me  empty  depart, 

Nor  turn  a  doaf  ear  to  my  prayer. 

My  enemies,  Lord,  as  the  hairs  of  my  head, 

So  many,  on  all  sides,  arise  ; 
My  life,  in  the  dust,  they  are  anxious  to  tread, 

While  Justice  and  Truth  they  despise. 

False  witnesses  join,  in  their  malice  and  spite, 

With  those  who  breathe  cruelty  out ; 
But  Rulers,  and  People,  aud  Preachers  unite, 

To  compass  my  footsteps  about. 

To  Thee,  for  protection  and  safety,  I  flee, 
And  trust  in  Thy  word,  as  I'm  taught , 

Thy  speedy  salvation,  O,  Lord,  let  me  see, 
And  bring  their  devices  to  nought. 

They  wrest  all  my  words,  and  their  meaning  pervert, 

And  mischiefs  against  me  devise ; 
My  pious  intentions  and  efforts  subvert, 
%  And  multiply  infamous  lies. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  97 

O  !  be  Thou  my  Refuge,  my  Shield  from  all  harm, 

In  Thee  all  my  trust  I  repose  ; 
Stretch  out  for  my  help  Thine  omnipotent  arm, 

I  '11  smile  at  the  tempest  that  blows. 

From  those  who  surround  me — but  more  from  my  heart, 

Temptations,  like  billows,  do  roll : 
O  !  when  I  'm  enticed  from  uprightness  to  part, 

Preserve,  blessed  Jesus,  my  soul. 

And  suffer  me  not  to  be  "tempted  and  tried, 

Above  what  I  'm  able  to  bear ;" 
"A way  of  escape"  in  temptation,  provide, 

And  grant  me  the  weapon,  "ALL  PRAYER." 

Give  me,  in  my  sufferings,  with  patience  to  wait, 

And  meet,  with  submission,  Thy  will ; 
To  "know,"  in  afflictions  and  bonds,  for  Thy  sake, 

That  "Thou  art  my  God"— and  "be  still." 

A  faith  in  Thy  wisdom,  Thy  power  and  love, 
Which  nothing  can  shake,  now  bestow  ; 

That  all  my  allotments  descend  from  above, 
And  all  work  for  good,  here  below. 

O !  make  me  a  blessing  wherever  I  'm  cast, 

"'Work  in  me  to  will  and  to  do  ;" 
Then  bring  me,  when  toilings  and  conflicts  are  past, 

My  God  and  my  Savior  to  view. 

Unworthy  of  favor,  or  notice,  am  I, 
No  merit  or  goodness  I  claim ; 
6 


98  POHMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

My  hope  is  in  this — that  the  Saviour  did  die — 
These  blessings  I  ask  in  His  name. 


EMANCIPATION  IN  THE  W.  I.,  AUG.  1,  1838. 

Hail !  day  to  be  remembered  long, 

By  all  who  love  the  human  race  ; 
At  thy  return,  in  Freedom's  song, 

We  join  to  sing,  with  smiling  face. 

At  thy  approach,  in  'thirty-eight, 
What  big  emotions  swelled  the  heart 

Of  thousands,  in  a  wretched  state, 

Which  thy  glad  beams  would  from  them  part  1 

Their  chains  fell  quick— their  fetters  broke, 
The  rising  sun  proclaimed  them  free— 

Eight  hundred  thousand  then  awoke, 
To  taste  the  sweets  of  Liberty  ! 

The  Driver's  horn  refused  to  sound, 
His  cracking  whip  was  heard  no  more  ; 

But  ringing  bells,  and  shouts  around, 
Echoed  their  joy  from  shore  to  shore. 

From  chattleship  to  manhood  changed, 
Like  creatures  new,  they  felt,  and  spake  ; 

The  joyful  crowds  in  order  ranged, 
Praised  God  for  such  a  blessing  great.* 

The  wife  and  husband  haste  to  meet- 
Long  severed  by  the  Tyrant's  power ; 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  99 

Children,  their  long-lost  parents  greet, — 
And  O !  the  raptures  of  that  hour ! 

The  father  doth  each  one  embrace, 
And  then  recounts  their  sorrows  past ; 

While  down  the  care-worn  matron's  face, 
Bright  tears  of  joy  are  trickling  fast. 

Together  then,  they  join  in  praise, 

For  all  the  wonders  God  has  done  : 
Wisdom  implore,  to  guide  their  ways, 

In  all  the  changes  yet  to  come. 

They  bury  all  the  whips  and  chains, 

And  labor  cheerfully  for  pay : 
Forget  their  sorrows,  stripes  and  pains, 

In  happiness  from  day  to  day. 

Their  hearts  enlarge — their  minds  improve, 
Since  freed  from  Slavery's  withering  curse  : 

Increase  in  knowledge,  faith  and  love, 
And  blessings  all  around  disperse. 

O  !  when  shall  our  land  thus  be  free, 
From  all  the  curse  of  Slavery  f 
And  prove,  by  blest  experience,  too, 
What  FREEDOM  for  mankind  will  do  ? 
MISSOURI  PENITENTIARY,  Aug.  1,  1844. 


BIRTH-DAY    REFLE  C  TI  ON— No.  3. 

Twelve  months  have  rolled,  once  more,  their  rapid  round, 
And  I,  a  pris'ner  in  the  flesh  remain ; 


100  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS     SUBJECTS. 

While  others  now  lie  mouldering  in  the  ground, 
Hive  to  hail  my  natal  day  again. 

But  what  is  life  !  or  who  would  wish  to  live, 
And  linger  out  his  ten  and  three-score  years, 

For  all  the  joys  and  sweets  that  earth  can  give, 
Commingled  with  so  many  bitter  tears  ? 

'Tis  true,  that  pleasures  mingle  with  the  pain, 

Of  which  no  pen  can  paint  reality ; 
But — spring  they  from  relations  we  sustain, 

To  endless  life — to  Immortality. 

The  thoughts  of  Rest — of  everlasting  peace, 

When  freed  from  this  terrestrial  abode, 
Support  the  soul  to  wait  for  her  release 

With  patience — while  she  sings  along  the  road. 

But  not  alone  from  mundane,  thorny  ground, 
Where  thistles,  weeds,  and  briars  only  grow — 

Can  one  faint  ray  of  happiness  be  found, 

To  cheer  the  trav'ler  through  this  world  of  wo. 

'Tis  thus — though  prison  walls  my  steps  enclose, 
And  iron  doors,  with  bars  and  locks  confine — 

Though  wicked  men,  with  rage,  my  way  oppose, 
And  earth  and  hell  against  my  soul  combine — 

Though  long  debarr'd,  in  God's  own  house,  a  seat — 
The  rich  delight  of  mingling  with  the  saints, 

Where  all  the  holy,  faithful,  happy,  meet, 

To  join  in  prayer  and  praise  without  restraints — 

Though  pressed  with  heavy  labors  all  the  day, 

From  morn  till  night,  for  weeks,  and  months  and  year? 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.      101 

And  oft  disturbed  when  on  my  knees  to  pray, 
Amid  confusion,  noise,  and  impious  jeers — 

Tis  thus  my  mind  is  quiet  kept — with  peac  e 
And  joy  unspeakable  my  soul  is  blest — 

"Soon  will  these  troublings  of  the  wicked  CEASE, 
And  soon  the  weary  find  ETERNAL  REST." 

Then  what  are  all  my  toils  and  sufferings  here, 
Compared  with  glory  soon  to  be  possessed  ? 

For  me,  my  Saviour  shortly  will  appear, 

And  take  me  home  to  dwell  among  the  blest. 

The  quick  succession  of  my  passing  years, 

That  like  "swift  ships,"  are  wafting  me  along — 

Yea,  every* day  and  night  that  disappears, 
Proclaim — I  soon  shall  with  the  dead  belong. 

Shall  earthly  pleasures,  then,  engage  my  mind  ? 

Or  wealth  ?  or  praise  of  men  ?  or  sensual  ease  ? 
Let  worldlings  seek  in  these  their  bliss  to  find, 

But  I  will  strive,  my  God  to  love,  and  please. 

Much  of  my  precious  time,  to  waste  has  run, — 

Too  sluggish  been  my  soul — my  thoughts  too  vain — 

O  !  Lord,  forgive — grant  strength  for  days  to  come, 
Nor  let  me  from  Thy  presence  rove  again. 

His  loving  kindness  let  me  now  record, 

And  note  the  wonders  He  hath  for  us  wrought : 

"My  soul  doth  bless  and  magnify  the  Lord," 
Who  safely  has  through  all  our  trials  brought. 


102  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

To  ug  a  precious  privilege  was  given — 

A  blessing  great  indeed — a  lamp — a  LIGHT, 

By  which  we  sung  and  read,  and  wrote  at  even, 
When  safely  locked  within  our  cell  at  night. 

When  long  secluded  from  all  earthly  friends, 
With  whom  we  oft  had  to  the  Temple  walked, 

(Though  God,  by  His  own  presence,  made  amends,) 
Sweet  counsel  took,  and  of  our  Saviour  talked — 

In  His  own  time,  (which  always  is  the  best,) 
He  sent  those  to  us  whom  we  lov'd  most  dear  ; 

And  (diverse  from  all  favors  to  the  rest) 
We  converse  had  without  restraint  or  fear  ! 

O  !  seasons,  long  to  be  remembered,  they — 

We  sang  God's  praise — together  joined  in  prayer — • 

Met  and  commingled  hearts,  from  day  to  day, 
And  on  the  Sabbath  had  a  feast  more  rare. 

The  hand  of  God,  so  plain,  we  could  but  own, 
That  caused  e'en  wicked  men  to  treat  us  so — 

Besought,  when  bow'd  together 'fore  His  throne, 
That  He  would,  with  them,  on  their  journey  go. 

How  many  precious  letters,  too,  we  've  had, 

From  those  we  could  not  see,  or  hear  their  voice ; 

Which  strengthen'd,  cheered  our  hearts,  and  made  them 

glad, 
Sweetened  our  toils,  and  made  our  souls  rejoice  ! 

And  oh  !  what  seasons  in  our  "hallowed  cell  /" 
Where  sinners  wept — for  mercy  loudly  cried — 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.      103 

Where  converts  met,  of  Jesus'  love  to  tell ! 
Though  many,  ah  !  alas !  have  turned  aside. 

O  !  glorious  days — But  they  are  now  no  more — 
A  "king  who  knew  not  Joseph,"  soon  arose  : 

With  him,  dark  clouds  spread  our  horizon  o'er, 
He  stopped  our  class,  and  did  all  good  oppose. 

What  havoc  then  among  the  lambs  was  made — 
Exposed  to  wolves,  and  not  allowed  to  meet ! 

Discouraged,  tempted,  weak,  ah  !  many  strayed, 
Which  made  our  souls  in  secret  places  weep. 

Yet  God  is  wise,  who  doth  such  things  allow, 
And  what  is  best,  He  better  knows  than  we ; 

Low  at  his  feet  we  then  will  humbly  bow, 
And  wait,  till  His  salvation  we  shall  see. 

Still,  blessings  great,  of  which  we  were  in  need- 
Rich  funds  of  gospel  knowledge — books  and  tracts — 

We  have  received,  on  which  our  souls  may  feed, 
And  gain  new  strength  for  future  fresh  attacks. 

The  word  of  God  is  sure,  and  cannot  fail — 
Though  seeming  evils  o'er  us  long  may  brood — 

Though  men  and  devils  join  our  peace  t'  assail, 
He  will  withhold  from  Saints  no  real  good. 

Come,  then,  my  soul,  in  Him  place  all  your  trust — 
Learn  wisdom,  patience,  faith,  from  all  that's  past: 

And  when  this  flesh  lies  slumbering  in  the  dust, 
You  '11  shout,  on  high,  "all,  ALL  is  WELL,"  at  last. 


BENEFITS    OF    AFFLICTION. 

IT  IS  GOOD  FOR  ME  THAT  I  HAVE  BEEN  AFFLICTED.' 

'T  is  good  for  me  that  I  have  felt 
Thy  chastening  hand,  O  !  God  : 

Thy  strokes  of  love  my  heart  do  melt, 
And  I  will  kiss  the  rod. 

'T  is  good  for  me— that  I  may  learn 

The  secrets  of  my  heart ; 
And  every  traitor  there  discern, 

That  would  from  Thee  depart. 

'T  is  good— to  mortify  the  flesh, 

And  all  its  lusts  subdue  ; 
That  every  power  which  I  possess 

May  yield  allegiance  true. 

'T  is  good  for  me— that  I  may  see 

How  weak  I  am,  and  frail ; 
How  soon,  unless  upheld  by  Thee, 

This  tenement  would  fail. 

'T  is  good— that  I  may  learn  how  vain 

Is  all  that  Earth  can  boast — 
Its  wealth,  and  beauty,  pleasure,  fame — 

Mere  childish  toys,  at  most. 

'T  is  good— that  I  may  learn  to  place 

My  whole  desire  above — 
May  seek  the  smiles  of  Jesus'  face, 

And  visits  of  His  love. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  105 

'T  is  good — that  I  may  pity  those 

In  suffering  and  distress  : 
Know  how  to  soothe  their  heavy  woes, 

And  calm  the  troubled  breast* 

'T  is  good — to  teach  me  how  to  pray — 

To  feel  the  worth  of  prayer  : 
To  cleave  to  God  from  day  to  day, 

And  on  Him  cast  my  care. 

'T  is  good— that  I  may  learn  Thy  word — 

Its  hidden  riches  find ; 
The  peace  and  comfort  they  afford, 

To  satisfy  the  mind. 

'T  is  good  for  me—that  I  may  prove 

Thy  every  Promise  sure ; 
How  full !  how  free !  what  power  to  soothe ! 

Upon  them,  how  secure  ! 

'T  is  good — as  silver  to  refine, 

And  purge  away  my  dross ; 
To  make  His  image  in  me  shine, 

Who  hung  upon  the  cross. 

'T  is  good — to  conquer  my  self- wilt, 

Which  would  resist  the  rod ; 
That  I,  submissive,  may  "be  still, 

And  know  that  Thou  art  God." 

Tis  good— that  I  may  trust  and  prove — 

Wlien  storms  of  sorrow  lower — 
Thy  wisdom,  goodness,  and  Thy  love, 

Thy  faithfulness  and  power. 


10f>  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

'T  is  good  for  me— and  this  I  know, 
That  He  who  gives  me  food, 

Will  cause,  to  me,  while  here  below, 
"All  things  to  work  for  GOOD." 

'T  is  good— that  I  may  think  of  death, 

And  be  prepared  to  die : 
May  dwell,  when  called  to  yield  my  breath, 

With  Thee,  above  the  sky. 

'T  is  good — I  praise  Thee,  and  adore 

The  way  I  have  been  led ; 
And  with  delight  I  '11  trace  it  o'er, 

When  I  fair  Canaan  tread. 

0  !  Lord,  't  is  GOOD — and  now  let  come 
Whate'er  Thou  seest  best : 

1  will  pronounce  it  all  well  done, 

And  in  Thy  pleasure  rest. 


ON    THE    DEATH    OF    A    CHILD. 

(BY    REQUEST    OF    THE    MOTHER.) 

The  darling  of  my  breast, 
Is  quietly  at  rest, 

Beneath  the  clod : 
That  form,  so  dear  to  me, 
Which  I  no  longer  see, 
It  was  a  gift  most  free, 

Bestowed  by  God. 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.       107 

When  him  I  did  receive, 
I  hop'd  he  long  would  live, 

My  earthly  prop— 
My  comfort  and  my  stay, 
Through  all  life's  dreary  way, 
Till  call'd  from  earth  away, 

My  flesh  should  drop. 

But  such  was  not  designed 
By  the  Eternal  Mind — 

My  son  is  gone  ! 
I  own  the  just  decree, 
'Tis  right,  it  thus  should  be, 
O  Lord.  I  yield  to  Thee, 

"  Thy  will  be  done." 

"  He  gave  and  took  away," 
And  cheerfully  I'll  say, 
"  Blest  be  His  name." 
Though  earthly  comforts  die, 
The  Lord,  who  rules  on  high, 
My  Helper  ever  nigh, 
Remains  the  same. 

How  sweet  to  feel,  while  here, 
My  Saviour  ever  near, 

To  cheer  my  heart ! 
He  more  than  makes  amends, 
For  loss  of  children,  friends, 
And  heavenly  med'cine  sends 

To  heal  the  smart. 


10«  FOKM6    OX    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

My  child  shall  ne'er  return, 
But  like  a  Seraph,  burn 

Before  the  throne ; 
To  him  I  soon  shall  go, 
And  leave  this  world  of  wo. 
Eternal  joys  to  know, 

With  Christ  at  home. 

Though  here,  he  scarce  could  speak, 
Yet  now  he  can  repeat 

The  song  above ; 
He  shines  in  bright  attire. 
And  strikes  the  golden  lyre, 
Each  note  ascending  higher, 

To  Jesus'  love. 

Sing  on,  through  endless  days, 
Sing  loud  your  Saviour's  praise. 

Who  brought  you  there  ; 
Your  mother  will  not  weep, 
For  soon  she  hopes  to  meet 
Tu  some  divine  retreat. 

Your  bliss  to  share. 


THE  SUFFERING  CHRISTIAN  ENCOURAGED. 

From  Earth,  and  all  its  cares, 
Its  vanities  and  snares, 

Its  toils,  and  sorrows,  pains  and  woes  ; 
We  soon  shall  find  release, 
In  everlasting  peace, 

Where  joy  unmixed,  forever  flows. 


POEMS    OX    A'ARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  1 

There  Jesus  dwells  in  lio-ht, 

tT5        " 

And  majesty  so  bright, 

As  ne'er  beheld  by  mortal  eye  ; 

His  glory  fills  the  place, 

And  beams  of  heavenly  grace, 
Illume  the  shining  courts  on  high. 

Exalted  on  His  throne, 
His  smile  is  bliss  unknown, 

And  fills  all  heaven  with  sounding  praise ; 
Th'  adoring  armies  fall, 
And  with  delight  extol 

His  matchless  love,  through  endless  days. 

The  saints  arrayed  in  white, 
With  Angels,  there  unite, 

To  sound  and  sweep  the  golden  Ivre  : 
With  ecstaeies  they  trace 
The  conflicts  they  have  past, 

And  tune  their  hearts  and  voices  higher. 

What  then  are  sufferings  here  ? 
That  glorious  day  is  near, 

When  we  shall  leave  them  all  behind ; 
No  Prisons  there— nor  aught 
To  cause  one  anxious  thought, 

Or  discompose  our  peaceful  mind. 

What'er  our  trials  are, 
Lot  us,  by  faith  and  prayer, 

Superior  to  them  all  arise  ; 
Anchor  within  the  vnll. 


110 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 


And  soon,  with  full-spread  sail, 

We'll  reach  our  haven  in  the  skies. 
OCT.  25,  1844. 


ON  THE  RELEASE  OF  A  PRISONER, 

AND     GIVEN     TO     ONE     WHO    WAS    PARDONED. 

Go,  fellow  Pris'ner,  here  so  long  confined 
By  iron  doors,  and  locks,  and  gloomy  walls; 

Leave  all  thy  tears  and  sufferings  here  behind, 
And  answer  to  thy  little  children's  calls. 

Go,  find  your  darlings — wipe  away  their  tears, 
Cheer  up  their  hearts — their  sorrows  drive  away  ; 

Bid  them  to  banish  all  their  former  fears, 
And  now  rejoice  to  see  the  wished-for  day. 

Go,  find  that  weeping,  broken-hearted  wife, 
Whom  you  have  caused  to  mourn,  by  evil  ways  ; 

Go,  sweeten  now,  her  long  imbittered  life, 
And  in  God's  fear  together  spend  your  days. 

Go  to  your  friends,  whom  you  have  made  to  weep, 
And  who  have  followed  you  with  many  prayers  ; 

Go,  wipe  the  tear  from  off  that  furrowed  cheek, 
And  lighten  life's  oppressive,  anxious  cares. 

Go,  tell  them  all,  that  you  have  seen  and  felt 

The  evil  of  your  former  wicked  ways  ; 
That  Jesus'  love  your  hardened  heart  did  melt, 

And  filled  your  mouth  with  songs  of  grateful  praise. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  Ill 

Go,  show  the  world,  by  holy,  upright  acts, 
And  godly  conversation  joined  with  all, 

That  you,  henceforth,  will  mark  your  Saviour's  tracks, 
And  do.  in  tamest,  on  His  name  now  call. 

Go,  fellow-pris'ner — go,  be  useful — go, 
And  be  to  man  a  blessing,  where  you  dwell ; 

The  end  of  sinful  ways  to  sinners  show, 

Which  lead  to  Prisons,  Gallows,  and  to  Hell. 

Go,  serve  Manasseh's  God,  and  yours,  till  death, 
Nor  e'er  forget  your  lonely  prison  cell ; 

Remember  those  in  bonds  with  prayerful  breath, 
And  meet  me,  finally,  in  heaven — farewell. 

OCT.  25, 1844. 


INVITATION  AND  WARNING. 

Attend,  mourning  captive,  convicted,  condemned —          * 
"  Glad  tidings,"  I  bring  you,  to  day,  from  a  friend ; 
A  Pardon,  for  all,  I'm  commissioned  to  bring, 
Who  now  will  repent,  and  submit  to  their  King. 

You  all  have  rebelled,  and  deserve  not  to  live, 
Yet  still  He  is  gracious,  and  waits  to  forgive ; 
He  asks  not  your  death,  nor  large  money  demands, 
But  willing  obedience  to  all  His  commands. 

If  now  you'll  confess  and  forsake  every  sin, 
With  hearty  allegiance  return  unto  Him, 
He'll  grant  a  full  pardon  for  all  that  is  past, 
Yea,  comfort,  defend,  and  receive  you,  at  last. 


Ill'       POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

But  if  with  these  terms  you  refuse  to  comply, 
The  sentence  is  past,  and  you  surely  must  die ; 
There's  nothing  can  save  you,  but  this  I  proclaim, 
"Repentance  toward  God,  and  true  failh  inhisname. 

Oh !  why  will  You  slight  this  free  offer  of  life  ! 
And  madly  continue  your  unequal  strife 
With  Him  who  can  stop,  in  a  moment,  your  breath, 
And  plunge  you,  forever,  in  darkness  and  death  ? 

Oh,  stop !  and  consider,  before  it's  too  late, 
Yield  now  to  the  offer,  while  mercy  doth  wait ; 
O !  come,  dying  mortals,  why  make  this  delay  ? 
Come,  cease  your  rebellion,  submit  to  His  sway. 

Come,  ye  who  accept  it,  and  give  me  your  hand, 
In  pledge  that  you'll  serve  in  Emanuel's  band ; 
"  Be  faithful  till  death,  and  a  crown  He'll  bestow," 
Outshining  in  splendor,  all  things  here  below. 

To  all  who  reject  it,  one  word  we  would  say, 
"  Remember — remember,  we've  warned  you  to  day  ; 
And  now  must  we  leave  you  bound  madly  for  hell  ? 
Then,  judgment-bound  trav'lers,  we  bid  you  farewell. 


GOD'S  PROMISE  OF  GOOD. 

"  I  will  surely  do  thee  good," 
Is  the  word  of  Promise,  sure, 

Which  through  ages,  firm  has  stood, 
And  forever  shall  endura. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  113 

Christ  Himself,  the  word  has  given 

To  His  suffering  members  here, 
When  from  place  to  place  they're  driven, 

This  shall  animate  and  cheer. 

Severed  from  companions  dear, 

Friends  or  kindred  torn  away — 
Christians,  dry  the  falling  tear, 

God  himself  will  be  your  stay. 

On  a  bed  of  sickness  laid, 

This  shall  soothe,  and  heal  the  smart, 
So  illumine  death's  dark  shade, 

You  will  cheerfully  depart. 

Though  in  Prisons  dark,  immured, 

With  sore  trials  greatly  pressed  : 
Of  this  Promise  be  assured, 

And  in  quiet  on  it  rest. 

Foes  may  frown,  and  friends  forsake, 

Waves  of  sorrow  o'er  you  roll — 
This  supports  in  every  state, 

And  revives  the  drooping  soul. 

Though  to  us,  short-sighted,  frail, 

All  may  seem  to  work  for  ill ; 
This  sweet  Promise  cannot  fail, 

All  shall  work  our  best  good  still. 

Courage,  then,  ye  chastened  saints, 

Let  no  sorrow  fill  your  mind  ; 
Cease  your  murmuring  and  complaints. 

Though  He  wounds,  He  yet  is  kind. 


114  I'OEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Plead  His  Promise,  faithful,  true- 
Wait,  submissive  to  His  will; 

Soon,  He  will  appear  to  you, 
And  will  every  word  fulfil. 

Then  rejoice,  in  all  His  ways, 
Living  in  a  cheerful  mood ; 

And  you'll  own,  e'er  many  days, 
He  did  "  SURELY  DO  YOU  GOOD." 


DEPARTURE  OF  ALANSON WORK,  FROM 
PRISON.— JAN.  20,  1845. 

Our  dear  loving  brother,  our  "  Faithful  "  has  gone, 
Our  prison  companion,  six  months,  and  three  years  ; 

His  labors,  and  sufferings,  his  work  here  is  done, 
We  meet,  perhaps,  never,  in  this  vale  of  tears. 

What  precious  communion,  and  fellowship  sweet, 
We  long  have  enjoyed  in  our  hallowed  cell ! 

While  bowing  in  prayer,  at  Emanuel's  feet, 
And  striving,  in  concert,  His  praises  to  swell. 

His  trials,  and  sorrows,  were  as  truly  ours — 

With  hi  n  we  rejoiced,  and  together  did  mourn ; 

One  object,  one  interest,  engaged  all  our  powers, 
To  stand  by  the  Truth  until  death,  we  were  sworn. 

His  place  here  is  vacant,  but  'tis  to  supply 
That  long-empty  seat,  by  his  own  fire -side  ; 

The  sorrowing  tear-drops  to  wipe  from    each  eye, 
And  for  h:s  dear  flock  needed  comforts  provide. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  11 

No  more,  at  our  altar,  with  us  dotli  he  bow — 
.No  longer  is  heard,  in  our  praises,  his  voice ; 

He  in  the  blest  courts  of  the  Lord,  worships  now, 

And  there,  with  the  Righteous,  doth  sing  and  rejoice. 

O  !  happy  Alanson  !  released  from  his  chains, 
And  compassed  by  spirits  akin  to  his  own ; 

His  tongue  will  break  forth  in  unknown,  joyful  strains, 
And  tell  with  exulting,  what  Jesus  has  done. 

The  songsters  of  nature,  his  bosom  will  cheer, 

And  Earth's  blooming  prospects,  enrapture  his  sight, 

The  sound  of  the  "  church-going  bell,"  he  can  hear, 
And  view  happy  throngs,  with  enlivening  delight. 

Go,  go,  happy  brother,  to  freedom  again — 

The  great  boon  of  heaven,  improve  and  enjoy  ; 

A  little  while  longer,  your  partners  remain, 
To  labor  and  suffer — and  "count  it  all  joy" 

Farewell,  now,  dear  brother — farewell,  a  few  days, 
Though  parted  in  body,  we're  still  joined  as  one ; 

For  all  these  afflictions,  our   Father  we'll  praise, 
Forever  adoring  around  the  White  Throne. 


"GO,  CHILD." 
(AVRITTEN  FOR  MY  MOTHER.) 

Yes,  go  my  dear  child,  for  the  Lord  calls  for  you, 
Go  forth,  and  perform  what  He  tells  you  to  do; 
I  give  you  up  gladly,  to  labor  for  Him, 
In  turning  this  world  from  rebellion  and  sin. 


110       POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

I  long  fondly  hoped  it  might  so  ordered  be, 
That  in  iny  old  age  you  might  live  near  to  me, 
To  be  my  support,  and  comfort,  and  prop, 
While  in  this  dark  valley  of  tears  I  shall  stop. 

But  Jesus  will  comfort  and  be  my  sure  stay, 
He'll  grant  me  assistance  and  strength  as  my  day  ; 
So,  for  the  poor  Heathen,  I  bid  you  farewell, 
Go,  hasten  the  news  of  a  Saviour  to  tell. 

Why  should  I  be  selfish,  and  keep  you  at  home, 
While  hundreds  of  millions  in  darkness  now  moan  ? 
Their  souls  are  as  precious  as  our's — You  may  go, 
Go,  child  to  their  rescue,  and  save  them  from  wo. 

Though  never  again  I  may  see  your  face  here, 
The  thought  that  you  're  useful,  my  bosom  shall  cheer : 
I  will  not  repine, but  rejoice,  I've  a  child, 
Who 's  willing  to  labor  for  Savages  wild. 

Go  then,  my  dear  children — fear  toil,  pain,  nor  shame, 
Go,  publish  salvation  in  Jesus'  name  : 
Nor  shrink  e  'en  from  death,  for  the  sake  of  your  Lord, 
Your  crown  will  be  brighter,  and  great  your  reward. 

Though  I  can 't  go  with  you,  so  gray  are  my  hairs, 
Be  sure  I  shall  follow  with  multiplied  prayers  : 
Each  morning  and  evening  such  blessings  implore, 
As  you  will  most  need  on  that  far  distant  shore. 

I  '11  meet  you  in  heaven,  loaded  with  sheaves, 
I'll  hail  your  approach  from  beyond  the  wide  seas  : 
There,  there  with  the  souls  you  have  saved,  we  will  sing, 
And  praise  evermore  our  Emanuel,  King. 


POEMS    ON    TARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  117 

Be  humble — be  holy — be  patient — be  meek — 
And  wisdom  from  heaven  continually  seek  : 
Be  active — be  zealous — improve  your  time  well, 
And  show  to  the  Heathen,  the  Christian — farewell. 
MARCH,  1845. 


THE   LORD'S   SUPPER. 

Around  the  table  of  our  Lord, 

Who  pleads  for  us  above  : 
Again  we  meet  with  one  accord, 

To  celebrate  His  love. 

Come,  dear  beloved,  venture  near, 
With  thankful  hearts  partake  : 

Our  gracious  Master  ever  near, 
For  our  requests  doth  wait. 

Let  us  adore  the  matchless  grace, 
That  brought  Him  from  on  high, 

To  suffer  for  our  guilty  Race— 
For  you  and  me,  to  die. 

Let  gratitude  our  zeal  inflame 
To  love  and  serve  Him  more— - 

And  spread  the  wonders  of  His  name, 
To  every  distant  shore. 

Come  now,  my  soul,  thy  Ransom  view, 
Who  frees  from  sin  and  hell : 

He  bore  the  vengeance  due  to  you, 
O !  then  His  praises  swell. 


118  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Thou  Lamb  of  God,  my  Sacrifice, 
I  own  Thy  claims  on  me : 

Thou  art  my  soul's  redemption  price 
And  I  will  live  for  thee. 

Now  write  Thy  truth  within  my  heart- 

Thy  Spirit  richly  grant : 
And  oh!   Thyself  to  me  impart, 

For  after  Thee  I  pant. 


BIRTH   DAY   R  EFLEC  TIO  N.~  No.  4. 
AUGUST  12,  1845. 

As  sands,  unceasing,  from  the  glass, 
In  quick  succession  rapid  pass, 
So  fly  my  days  of  exile  here : 
And  oh  !  .the  happy  day  is  near, 
When  God  will  dry  up  every  tear, 
And  call  me  home. 

Another  year  of  this  short  life 
Has  passed,  'mid  feuflf'ring,  toil  and  strife : 
And  while  I  view  the  past,  to-day, 
With  gratitude  and  love,  I  say, 
The  Lord  has  been  my  Strength  and  Stay 
At  every  step. 

While  fears  and  dangers  thickly  met, 
To  tempt  my  soul  to  pine  and  fret: 
His  charming  voice  has  said,  "  Fear  not, 
Though  trying  is  your  present,  lot, 
You  shall  not,  by  Me,  be  forgot, 
I'll  be  your  help." 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  119 

While  fierce  diseases  flocked  around, 
And  many  laid  beneath  the  ground, 
My  feeble  frame  severely  shook  : 
I  cried,  "  O!  Lord,  in  mercy  look  "--- 
My  case  He  freely  undertook, 

And  raised  me  up. 

Long  stretched  upon  my  prison  bed, 
The  glorious  Promises  I  read — 
Each  one,  with  heavenly  blessings  fraught, 
Rich  comfort  to  my  spirit  brought : 
And  by  them,  sweet  submission  taught, 
My  soul  rejoiced. 

Sore  trials  have  beset  my  path, 
While  lions  roared  around  in  wrath : 
But  Daniel's  God,  of  ancient  age, 
Was  present  to  restrain  their  rage, 
And  for  my  safety  to  engage 

His  power  divine. 

Dark,  threat 'ning  clouds  have  intervened, 
Which,  fraught  with  evil  only,  seemed: 
But  everlasting  arms  were  spread, 
To  shield  my  poor  defenceless  head, 
While  Grace  preserved  my  soul  from  dread, 
Staid  on  the  Lord. 

No  earthly  friends  have  ventured  near, 
To  visit  a  poor  Prisoner  :* 
Their  arm  was  short- -though  great  their  care, 
Who  gladly  would  my  burdens  share — 
*  That  is,  during  the  previous  year. 


120      POEMS  OX  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

But  God  has  heard  a  pris'ner's  prayer 
In  times  of  need. 

In  each  distress,  in  every  strait, 
His  loving  kindness  has  been  great: 
While  millions  of  the  wretched  poor, 
Have  more  than  I  been  called  t'  endure, 
My  "  bread  and  water  "  has  been  sure, 
And  every  good. 

And  since,  through  all  my  conflicts  past, 
His  potent  arm  has  held  me  fast, 
I  will  upon  His  care  depend — 
Believe  He  '11  help  me  to  the  end, 
And  every  needed  comfort  send, 
While  here  I  stay. 

A  few  more  days — my  work  is  done — 
The  battle  fought— the  victory  won — 
And  then,  on  Canaan's  happy  shore, 
Where  chains  and  Prisons  are  no  more, 
With  saints  and  Angels,  I  '11  adore 
My  God  and  King. 

O !  hasten  on  the  glorious  time, 
When  I  shall  in  His  image  shine- 
Seraphic  love  my  soul  inflame, 
While  alleluias  to  His  name, 
Reecho  o'  er  the  heavenly  plain, 
Glory  to  God ! 


THE    GOSPEL    VESSEL. 

On  the  rough,  stormy,  tempestuous  Ocean, 

The  ocean  of  Time,  is  my  vessel  now  cast ; 
The  winds  and  the  billows,  in  dreadful  commotion, 

While  fiercely  contending,  quite  o'er  my  sides  dash. 
Yet  still  I'm  secure,  in  the  "old  Ship  of  Zion," 

Which  bravely  outrides  all  the  tempests  that  rise  : 
Her  sign,  in  bold  front,  is  old  Judah's  tried  "Lion," 

That  all  opposition  and  danger  defies. 

We  have  a  good  Captain — EMANUEL,  JESUS, 

Who  safely  has  landed  His  millions  at  home  ; 
From  all  threat'ning  evils  He  cheerfully  frees  us, 

And  never  has  lost,  of  His  passengers,  one. 
But,  oh !  how  we  feast  on  provision  celestial, 

The  fruits  of  the  country  to  which  we  are  bound  : 
No  such  royal  dainties  in  regions  terrestrial, 

By  any  poor  mortal  was  ever  yet  found. 

Our  Pilot  is  skilful— the  blest  SPIRIT  HOLY— 

The  rocks,  shoals,  and  quicksands  He  perfectly  knows  ; 
To  guide  us  through  safely,  we  trust  in  Him  solely, 

Confide  in  His  wisJom,  though  surgs  ovei  flows. 
Our  Compass,  the  BIBLE,  is  true  and  unfailing, 

And  constantly  points  to  the  haven  of  Love  : 
It  is  our  Chart,  also,  minutely  detailing 

Our  course  to  the  bright,  happy  country  above. 


-LZZ  FOEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Our  sure,  steadfast  Anchor,  THE  HOPE  OF  SALVATION, 

Takes  hold  on  the  bottom  of  Promise  secure ; 
'Mid  whirlwinds,  tornadoes,  and  floods  of  temptation. 

It  holds  the  Ship  firmly — and  safety  is  sure. 
By  close  SELF-INSPECTION,  the  old  line  of  Sounding, 

We  clearly  discover  the  truth  of  our  state  : 
Discern  thus  the  rocks,  and  the  danger  of  grounding, 

And  for  preservation  all  hands  are  awake. 

For  Ballast,  to  hold  us  in  upright  position, 

Amid  the  waves  dashing,  and  hurricane  gales, 
We  carry  sore  TRIALS,  and  heavy  AFFLICTION, 

Which  steady  the  vessel,  and  safely  she  sails. 
A  good  Christian  DIARY — where,  progress  and  courses, 

Events  of  importance  we  faithfully  place — 
Is  used  as  our  Loy-book,  for  future  resources, 

That  all  who  desire,  our  hist'ry  may  trace. 

Our  Sailors  are  numerous — the  pure  gospel  PREACHERS, 

Who  watch  for  our  safety,  and  toil  day  and  night ; 
And  in  Navigation,  a  number  are  TEACHERS, 

Who  train  up  young  Sailors  to  woYk  with  delight. 
The  SOUL,  with  rich  diamonds  and  spices,  our  Cargo, 

Surpassing  in  value  what  worldlings  can  bring; 
And  on  these,  our  treasures,  we  fear  no  embargo, 

For  all  are  insured  by  our  heavenly  King. 

To  catch  the  fair  breezes,  our  Sails  wide  extended, 
Are  beauteous  for  Angels  or  men  to  behold  : 

Firm  TRUST  is  our  Main-sail,  and  with  it  are  blended, 
RF.PF.NTANCE  and  COURAGE — unflincl  ing  and  bold — 

Sweet  TEMPERANCE,  and  KNOWLEDGE,  LONG-SUFFER 
ING,  and  MEEKNESS, 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.      123 

FORGIVENESS,  and  JOY,  BROTHER-KINDNESS,  death- 
strong, 

FORBEARANCE,  and  PATIENCE,  and  heavenly  SWEET 
NESS, 
While  CHARITY,  lovely,  to  all  these  belong. 

Infesting  our  Ocean,  are  bold  Pirates,  many, 

Relentlessly  cruel,  and  valiant  in  fight ; 
They  know  neither  mercy  nor  pity  for  any, 

And  millions  have  fallen  before  their  great  might. 
Though  oft  met  in  conflict — on  all  sides  surrounded 

By  fleets  of  these  Aliens  so  hard  to  be  driven, 
Our  two-edged  sword  left  them  scattered  and  wounded, 

And  to  our  brave  Captain  all  glory  be  given. 

Our  Sails  set  for  heaven,  and  winds  gently  blowing, 

We  soon  shall  arrive  in  the  harbor,  all  safe : 
Yes,  g^ory  !  full  swiftly  already  we're  going — 

It 's  now  in  full  view  by  our  Telescope,  FAITH. 
We  see  the  bright  Angels  preparing  to  meet  us, 

And  Mansions,  and  Glory,  our  tongues  cannot  tell ; 
Hosanna  !  Amen  !  Alleluia  !     They  greet  us, 

And  shout  us  all  \VELCOME  ! !     Farewell,  Earth,  Fare 
well! 

PENITENTIARY,  Sept.  10,  1845. 


A  PETITION  TO  GOV.  J.  C.  EDWARDS. 

Tothee,  O,  Ruler  of  this  Sovereign  State, 
A  suffering  Pris'ner  his  request  would  make ; 
Be  pleased  to  lend  a  condescending  ear, 
And  in  compassion  his  petition  hear. 


1^4      POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

By  way  of  premise,  suffer  me  to  say, 
That  four  long  years,  and  more,  have  rolled  away, 
Since  from  my  friends  and  kindred  I  was  torn, 
And  left  them  all,  my  doleful  state  to  mourn. 

An  aged  mother.  Sir,  whose  bowels  yearn, 
And  who  has  waited  long  her  son's  return — 
An  old  gray-headed  father,  too,  whose  pity  moves, 
And  longs  once  more  to  see  the  Son  he  loves — 
Just  o'er  the  gaping  tomb,  with  grief,  they  bend, 
While  their  unceasing  prayers  to  heaven  ascend, 
That  they  their  long-lost  son  may  live  t'  embrace, 
And  view  again,  in  time,  his  toil-worn  face. 

The  partner  of  my  joys  and  griefs  for  life, 
My  bosom  friend,  and  my  espoused  wife, 
Has  waited  through  these  long  and  mournful  years, 
With  earnest  prayers,  and  cries,  and  floods  of  tears, 
To  see  the  day  when  we  could  leave  our  home, 
And  go  where  Pagans  in  their  darkness  roam, 
To  point  them  to  the  sin-atoning  blood, 
And  say  to  all,  "Behold  the  Lamb  of  God." 
Hundreds  of  millions,  in  the  deepest  thrall 
Of  sin,  send  up  to  me  their  earnest  call, 
To  hasten  to  them,  and  the  way  make  known, 
By  which  they  may  escape  the  "wrath  to  come  :" 
By  thousands — far  beyond  the  reach  of  hope — 
They  daily  sink,  in  deep  despair  to  grope. 
O  !  Sir,  their  loud  entreaties  pierce  my  heart, 
And  for  their  good,  I  gladly  now  would  part 
With  parents,  kindred,  country,  home,  and  friends, 
To  go  where'er  my  heavenly  Master  sends  ; 
And  spend  the  remnant  of  my  fleeting  days, 


, 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.      125 

la  turning  Heathen  from  their  sinful  ways. 

But  I  'm  your  Prisoner,  Sir,  nor  can  I  go, 
Until  a  pardon  from  your  hand  I  show. 
I  'm  here  confined  within  these  dismal  walls, 
Which  seem  almost  to  bar  out  mercy's  calls  ; 
And  here  I  long  have  been,  and  labored  hard, 
From  friends  and  Christian  intercourse  debarr'd. 
Here  have  I  suffered,  too,  both  day  and  night, 
What  Time  itself  can  nevec  bring  to  light. 

They  tell  me  I  'in  a  Felon,  and  receive 
But  what  strict  Justice,  by  the  Law,  doth  give. 
But  can  tho  fact  by  any  be  denied, 
There  passed  a  twelve-month,*  after  I  was  tried, 
Before  the  House  and  Senate  did  enact 
The  Law,  which  made  it  a  State's  Prison  act  ? 
And  on  th'  Assembly-men  of  'forty-two,f 
Who  published  to  the  people  statutes  new, 
Could  I  now  call  them,  one  by  one,  for  proof  ? 
Must  they  not  all  confess  this  is  the  truth  f 

Could  you,  Sir,  rule  the  people  of  this  State, 
Before  they  chose  you  for  their  Magistrate  ? 
Do  Lawyers  have  it  in  their  power  to  make 
New  laius,  to  suit  the  case  they  undertake  ? 
If  Legislators  do  not  Laws  provide, 
To  meet  the  wants  of  State  where  they  reside, 
Do  private  persons  have  the  power,  at  will, 
To  try,  condemn,  imprison,  and  to  kill? 
And  should  they  thus,  without  a  law,  proceed, 

*  Since  my  liberation,  I  have  received  a  copy  of  the  Law,  and 
find  th  it  it  was  not  passed  until  more  than  THREE  TEARS  after 
we  were  impr.soned. 

f  It  was  by  those  of  'forty-five. 


126  POBMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Should  not  the  High  Authorities  take  heed, 
And  rid  the  injured  person  from  their  hands — 
Then  furnish  Laws  which  public  good  demands  ? 

However,  this  I  to  your  judgment  leave, 
As  you  may  different  from  myself  believe. 

A  Felon  grant  I  am — what  then  's  the  case  ? 
Can  smiling  mercy,  therefore,  have  no  place  ? 
And  must  a  Frfon,  e'en,  who  truly  weeps, 
And  pardon  from  his  God,  contritely  seeks — 
Amendment  promises  to  all  mankind — 
Must  he  no  mercy  from  his  fellow  find  ? 

Wherein  I've  injured  God  or  man,  I  mourn, 
And  from  all  sinful  ways  do  truly  turn  ; 
And  if  a  promise  more,  from  me,  you  claim, 
I  say,  I  never  will  do  thus  again.J 

And  now,  in  view  of  Avhat  has  just  been  said, 
I  will,  before  you,  my  petition  spread  ; 
And  mercy,  mercy,  MERCY,  is  my  plea — 
That  you  grant  will  a  captive,  liberty, — 
Will,  in  your  gracious  clemency,  extend 
A  helping  hand,  and  rich  deliverance  send — 
For  a  poor  worm  your  sovereign  power  employ, 
And  cause  ten  thousand  hearts  to  leap  for  joy. 

'T  is  not  alone  for  self  I  plead — no — no — 
For  I  myself  could  cheerful  undergo 
The  sufferings,  trials,  toils— and  yield  my  breath 
With  sweet  composure,  in  the  arms  of  Death, 
Which  soon  must  overtake  me,  if  I  here 
Much  longer  stay.     But  t'  is  to  dry  the  tear 
Of  weeping  friends — a  numerous  list :  and  more- 

J  Go  into  a  Slave  State  for  Slaves. 


POEMS    OX    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  127 

That  ]  may  hasten  to  some  distant  shore, 
Where  sound  of  Jesus  never  yet  was  heard — 
Where  Satan,  in  his  kingdom  undisturbed, 
Sways  human  mind.     There — there  to  them  unfold 
The  sacred  Gospel's  plan  ;  and  from  his  hold, 
The  arch-Deceiver  drive  with  truth  divine — 
That  light  of  Revelation  there  may  shine, 
Dispelling  thence  the  cheerless,  midnight  shades, 
And  guide  to  realms  where  darkness  ne'er  invades — 
Where  joys  celestial  fill  th'  expanded  soul, 
And  beams  of  glory  radiate  the  whole. 

And  now,  it  lies  alone  with  you  to  say 
If  1  may  go — or  longer  here  must  stay, 
While  millions  sink  to  flames  of  endless  wo, 
Because  I  could  not  to  them  sooner  go. 

O  !  may  I  go  ?     Can't  you  my  Pardon  grant  ? 
Ten  thousand  thousand  will  your  kindness  thank. 
Others  have  been  released — O  !  why  not  I  ? 
Or  must  I  here  remain,  and  droop  and  die? 
I  plead  for  mercy — for  my  Parents'  sake  : 
I  plead  for  mercy — for  my  Consort's  sake : 
I  plead  for  mercy — for  the  Heathen's  sake  : 
I  plead  for  mercy — for  Missouri's  sake  : 
I  plead  for  mercy — for  our  Aoft'en's  sake  : 
I  plead  for  mercy — for  my  SAVIOUR'S  sake. 

A  brother,  and  companion  on  my  charge, 
Has  been  restored  to  liberty,  at  large  ; 
For  which,  a  thousand  thanks  to  heaven  ascend, 
And  shall,  in  blessings,  on  your  head  descend. 
And  thousands  more,  with  prayers  for  you  shall  rise, 
As  sweet  and  grateful  incense  to  the  skies, 


128       POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

If  a  poor  Capture's  prayer  shall  reach  your  heart, 
And  draw  from  you,  the  word,  "In  peace  depart." 

I  am  a  CHRISTIAN,  Sir,  and  Christ,  my  Lord, 
Will  bless,  with  vast  and  infinite  reward, 
The  man,  who  to  His  suffering  subject  shows 
Compassion,  and  relief  from  heavy  woes. 

In  view  of  our  relationship  as  men, 
Which  should  all  sinful  prejudice  condemn — 
In  view  of  prayers,  and  tears,  and  many  sighs, 
Which  daily  to  Jehovah's  throne  arise — 
In  view  of  millions  sinking  down  to  hell, 
Whose  sufferings  mortal  lips  can  never  tell — 
In  view  of  Time,  which  soon  will  be  no  more, 
But  waft  us  to  a  distant,  unknown  shore — 
In  view  of  Death,  which  hastens  on  apace, 
To  usher  us  before  the  Judge's  face — 
In  view  of  that  great,  final,  reck'ning  day, 
When  we  shall  hear  Him  to  His  children  say, 
"Come  near,  ye  blessed,  and  sit  down  with  Me, 
On  thrones,  prepared  from  all  eternity ;" 
But  to  the  wicked-~"//ence,  accurs'd,  depart, 
With  Satan  and  his  angels  have  your  part" — 
In  view  of  heaven,  where  angels  prostrate  fall. 
With  saints,  confessing  Jesus,  "Lord  of  all ;" 
Where  blissful  pleasures  do  forever  roll, 
And  full  fruition  fills  up  every  soul— 
In  view  of  vast  Eternity  to  come, 
Which  fixes  our  unchanging,  future  doom — 
In  view  of  all—I,  ask,  once  more,  the  same, 
And  plead  for  mercy,  in  my  Saviour's  name,— 


POEAIS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  129 

Commending  yon  to  His  all  gracious  care, 
That  you  may  hear  and  grant  my  earnest  prayer. 
Your  most  ob't. 

GEORGE  THOMPSON. 
PENITENTIARY,  Sept  23,  1845. 


THE    SLAVE'S    HOPE. 


The  following  was  suggested  by  a  Slave's  coming  into  tl 
risen,  whom  I  asked,  '-When  are  you  going  to  be  free  V"  ] 
jplied,  "After  Fm  dead  r^ 

From  this  sore  bondage  I  then  shall  be  free, 

After  I  'm  dead  —  After  I  'm  dead. 
Rest,  in  the  grave,  there  remains  yet  for  me, 

After  I'm  dead—  After  I'm  dead. 
Here  I  expect  still  to  suffer  and  toil, 
And  with  my  heart's  blood  to  fatten  the  soil  : 
But  oh  !  I  shall  rest  from  this  world  of  turmoil, 

After  I  'm  dead--  After  I  'm  dead. 

I  shall  be  free  from  the  Tyrant's  strong  hand, 

After  I  'm  dead—  After  I  'm  dead  : 
Nor,  trembling,  hear  his  loud,  threat'ning  command, 

After  I  'm  dead  —  After  I  'm  dead. 
Now  they  may  bind  me,  and  beat  when  they  please, 
Press  me  with  burdens  which  give  me  no  ease  — 
No  more,  as  their  victim,  on  me  shall  they  seize, 

After  I'm  dead—  After  I  'm  dead. 

I  shall  be  free  from  their  scorn  and  contempt, 

After  I  'm  dead  —  After  I  'm  dead. 
They,  to  their  malice,  may  give  a  free  veut, 


130  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

After  I  'm  dead — After  I  'm  dead  : 
Far  from  their  power  I  then  shall  abide, 
Safe  from  their  envy,  secure  from  their  pride — 
And  soon,  in  the  dust,  they  will  lie  by  my  side, 

After  I  'm  dead — After  I  'm  dead. 

I  shall  be  FREE  !     O,  the  rapturous  name  ! 

After  I  'm  dead — After  I  'm  dead : 
Free  from  my  shackles,  and  all  mortals'  claim, 

After  I  'm  dead™ After  I  'm  dead ; 
And  my  dear  Saviour,  I  hope  then  to  see, 
Who  gave  His  life  as  a  ransom  for  me, 
That  I,  in  His  kingdom,  might  ever  be  FREE, 

After  Pm  dead— After  Pm  dead 


"JESUS    TAKE    ME" 

"Jesus,  take  me,"  cried  our  brother,* 
With  his  last  and  dying  breath : 

Than  this  wish,  I  have  no  other, 
Bear  me  o'er  the  Jordan  Death. 

Jesus,  take  me, 
Through  the  rolling  current  safe. 

Take  me  from  this  world  of  trouble, 
Sorrow,  sin,  temptation,  pain ; 

All  below  is  but  a  bubble, 

Short,  delusive,  fleeting,  vain. 

Jesus,  take  me ; 
This  shall  be  eternal  gain. 

*I.  P.  Clary,  a  beloved  student,  at  Mission  Institute. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  131 

Take  me — now  my  time  of  labor, 

In  the  vineyard,  here,  is  o'er ; 
Since  for  Heathen,  friend  or  neighbor, 

I  can  toil,  and  pray  no  more  : 
Jesus,  take  me 

To  fair  Canaan's  happy  shore. 

Take  me — to  Thy  kingdom  glorious, 

Where  immortal  spirits  sing : 
Over  sin  and  death  victorious, 

O  !  my  soul  is  on  the  wing — 
Jesus,  take  me, 

To  Thy  bosom,  gracious  King. 

Glory  !  glory  !  to  my  Saviour, 
Who  hath  bought  me  with  His  blood ; 

By  whose  merit,  I  found  favor ; 
Safely  o'er  the  swelling  flood, 

Jesus  take  me — 
Glory  to  the  Lamb  of  God  ! 


GOOD  NEWS  FROM  A  FRIEND. 

Perhaps  those  who  have  never  been  in  Prison  will  not  be  able 
to  enter  fully  into  the  spirit  of  the  following  which  was  compo 
sed,  on  the  reception  of  a  l.tter,  from  a  dear  friend,  after  a  long 
time,  without  hearing  any  thing  from  my  companions  in  pros 
perity. 

Let  gratitude  my  soul  inflame, 
For  all  the  mercies  of  the  Lord ; 

And  while  I  praise  His  glorious  name, 
His  constant  faithfulness  record. 


132  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

As  to  the  thirsty  Trav'ler  faint, 
Cold  waters  most  reviving  are ; 

So  to  the  humble,  exiled  saint, 
Is  joyful  news  from  friends  afar. 

O  !  how  it  cheers  his  sinking  heart, 
And  His  desponding  soul  revives ; 

Allays  the  anguish — heals  the  smart — 
When  news,  from  those  he  loves,  arrives ! 

With  cheerfulness  and  courage  strong, 
He  meets  his  sufferings,  toils,  and  pain ; 

In  hope,  the  time  will  come,  e'er  long, 
When  they,  on  earth,  shall  meet  again. 

Though  severed  from  his  brethren  dear, 
'Mid  foes  and  dangers  all  around  ; 

"  Good  news  "  from  them,  will  always  cheer, 
And  make  his  happiness  abound. 

It  kindles  up  the  flame  of  love, 

And  binds  their  hearts  in  stronger  ties ; 

While  soon,  they  hope  to  meet  above, 
To  love  and  praise  beyond  the  skies. 

To  God,  let  heart-felt  thanks  ascend, 
For  this  new  proof  of  His  kind  care  ; 

For  this  fresh  token,  from  my  friend, 
Of  lore,  and  sympathy,  and  prayer. 


DEPARTURE  OF  MISSIONARIES. 

In  Prison,  we  heard  of  the  departure  of  five  of  our  compan 
ions,  for  India. — The  following  was  composed,  and  sung  in  our 
"hallowed  cell,"  on  the  evening  of  the  day  they  were  to  sail. 

Farewell,  lov'd  companions  so  dear, 

With  whom  we  have  oft  bow'd  in  prayer ; 
And,  joined  in  sweet  fellowship  here, 

Most  precious  communion  did  share : 
Farewell — these  sweet  seasons  are  o'er, 

The  time  of  our  parting  has  come  ; 
When  you,  for  a  far  distant  shore, 

May  leave  all  your  friends,  country,  home. 

To  realms  long  enshrouded  in  night, 

Enveloped  with  darkness  and  gloom  ; 
Go,  carry  the  Gospel's  blest  light. 

From  heaven,  man's  richest,  best  boon, 
Where  Idols  are  worshiped  with  zeal, 

And  Satan  bears  sway  uncontrolled  ; 
The  plan  of  Salvation  reveal — 

The  banner  of  Jesus  unfold. 

In  full  gospel  armor  be  clad, 

For  numerous  and  strong  are  your  foes ; 
The  "  Prince  of  this  world  "  will  be  mad, 

And  rouse  all  his  force  t'  oppose. 
"  Fear  not " — but  "  be  strong  in  the  Lord," 

And  all  opposition  defy ; 
Be  guided  alone  by  His  word, 

And  armioa  of  Aliens  shall  fly. 


134      POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

Go  forth — to  the  end  of  the  world, 

Extending  Emanuel's  sway  ; 
Before  you,  shall  Idols  be  hurled, 

And  vain  superstition  give  way  ; 
Nor  think  that  your  labor  is  done, 

While  yet  upon  Earth  you  remain  ; 
The  time  of  your  rest  will  not  come, 

Till  low  in  the  dust  you  are  lain. 

We  soon  shall  sit  down  with  our  Lord, 

In  mansions  of  glory  above  ; 
And  then  find  our  Rest  and  Reward, 

Forever  to  praise  Him,  and  love : 
O !  fkere,  many  souls  may  we  bring, 

The  anthems  of  rapture,  to  swell, 
To  Christ,  their  Redeemer  and  King — 

Till  then,  dear  companions,  farewell. 


DIALOGUE—A  MOTHER  AND  DAUGHTER. 

Suggested  by  the  departure  of  Jane  Kendall,  as  a  missionary 
to  India. 

Dear  Mother,  you  suffered  and  toiled  much  for  me, 
When  I  was  so  small,  and  dependent  on  thee ; 
You  watched  o'er  my  ways  to  restrain  me  from  sin, 
And  pointing  to  Jesus,  said,  "  Love  and  serve  Him." 

Yes  child,  I  have  suffered,  and  toiled  with  much  care, 
And  for  your  best  comfort,  no  effort  did  spare  ; 
But  when,  for  the  Saviour,  you  left  childish  toys, 
My  soul  was  then  filled  with  exceeding  great  joys. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  135 

Dear  Mother,  I  love  you,  and  gladly  would  do, 
Whatever  I  can  to  bring  comfort  to  you  ; 
For  all  your  great  kindness  I  ne'er  can  repay, 
Yet  what  will  most  comfort  you  ?     Say,  mother,  say. 

My  daughter,  your  filial  affection  is  such, 
As  adds  to  my  comfort  and  happiness  much; 
But  one  thing  remains  now  to  run  my  cup  o'er, 
Be  holy — be  useful — and  I  ask  no  more. 

To  be  such,  my  mother,  is  all  my  desire — 
To  be  such,  while  living,  my  soul  shall  aspire ; 
And  for  the  poor  Heathen,  whenever  yet  heard 
Of  Christ,  and  salvation,  my  bosom  is  stirred. 

Ah !  yes,  child,  their  sorrows  from  past  days  of  old, 
Have  been,  and  are  still  such  as  cannot  be  told ; 
They  grope  in  the  darkness  without  any  light, 
And  sink,  in  their  blindness,  to  unending  night. 

Well  Mother,  I'm  hearty,  and  vigorous,  and  young, 
I  know  what  the  Saviour,  for  sinr.ers,  has  done ; 
Why  could  I  not  go  and  salvation  proclaim  ? 
Go  bear  them  the  knowledge  of  Jesus'  name. 

Why,  child,  when  you're  wafted  to  that  distant  shore, 
Your  dear  loving  Mother  you  may  see  no  more ; 
Then  what  will  you  do,  in  a  dark,  foreign  land, 
When  fainting,  and  sick — and  no  mother  at  hand  ? 

Dear  Mother,  I  fear  not — The  Saviour  is  there, 
To  comfort  me,  strengthen,  and  answer  my  prayer : 
The  Heathen  are  dying — I  pity  their  woe — 
O !  say,  Mother,  say — may  I  go  ?  may  T  go  ? 


136  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS     SUBJECTS. 

Yes,  yes,  my  dear  child — it  rejoices  my  heart, 

To  see  you  so  willing,  with  kindred  to  part ; 

To  go  where  the  light  of  the  gospel  ne'er  shone, 

And  to  them,  "glad  tidings"  of  Pardon,  make  known. 

O,  glory  to  God  !     I'm  now  happy  indeed, 
Since  you,  my  dear  mother,  do  bid  me  God-speed ; 
But  will  you  not  mourn,  when  I  'm  far,  far  away, 
And  round  the  dear  Altar  no  more  bow  to  pray  ? 

Xo,  no,  daughter,  no— for  I  trust  in  the  Lord, 
He — He  will  be  with  you,  your  shield  and  reward : 
He  '11  bless  you  with  water,  and  bless  you  with  food, 
He  '11  bless  you  with  all  things  that  are  for  your  good* 

But,  Mother,  I  know  you  will  pray  for  your  child, 
When  lab'ring,  and  suffering  for  Savages  wild  ; 
At  morning,  at  noon,  and  at  night  will  you  bear 
My  case  to  the  ears  of  the  "Hearer  of  prayer." 

Yes,  child,  I  shall  follow,  with  prayer,  night  and  day, 
That  God  will  be  with  you,  your  comfort  and  stay ; 
Go  forth,  and  save  many  from  sin,  death,  and  hell, 
And  soon  we  shall  meet  in  fair  Canaan-- -fareivelL 

Farewell,  loving  parents — farewell,  sisters  dear  ; 
Do  not,  when  I  'in  absent,  for  me  shed  a  tear. 
Farewell,  youthful  scenes — my  companions,  farewell, 
Farewell,  native  country — farewell,  all — FAREWELL. 


MEETING    OF    FRIENDS 

Welcome,  dear  friends,  in  Jesus'  name, 
For  through  His  love,  we  meet  again, 

And  join  in  friendship  sweet ; 
While  many  have  been  called  to  die, 
Bright  hope  still  sparkles  in  our  eye, 

As  we  each  other  greet. 

Through  many  changes  we  have  passed, 
And  felt  affliction's  piercing  blast, 

And  various  trials  sore  ; 
But  out  of  all,  the  Lord  has  brought, 
Then  let  us  love  Him,  as  we  ought, 

And  trust  him  evermore. 

Ten  thousand  blessings  has  He  given, 
To  cheer  us  on  our  road  to  heaven, 

Through  all  the  dangerous  way ; 
The  Detert  has  supplied  us  food, 
The  flinty  Hock  poured  out  a  flood, 

And  "strength  been  as  our  day." 

Come,  let  us  eount  our  mercies  o'er — 
The  wisdom,  goodness,  love,  adore, 

Of  our  benignant  God  ; 
Till  gratitude  our  souls  shall  fire, 
With  an  unceasing,  strong  desire, 

To  sound  His  praise  abroad. 


138       POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

We'll  bow  before  the  Lord,  in  prayer, 
To  thank  Him  lor  His  guardian  care, 

And  all  His  kindness  shown; 
Unite  in  songs  of  grateful  praise, 
In  hope  to  strike  celestial  lays, 

Before  our  FatheVs  throne. 

O  !  there  we'll  inset,  and  shout,  and  sin< 
Loud  anthems  to  our  glorious  King, 

With  undivided  heart; 
Our  friendship  then  cemented  strong, 
We'll  join  the  everlasting  song, 

And  never,  never  part. 
DEC.  3,  1845. 


PARTING    OF    FRIENDS 

Friends,  beloved  for  Jesus'  sake, 
Now  before  we  separate, 
Let  us  bow  at  His  dear  feet, 
And  ourselves  to  Him  commit — 
Thank  Him,  for  His  mercies  past, 
And  His  constant  presence  ask. 

We  may  never  meet  again, 
While  on  Earth  we  shall  remain ; 
But  whate'er  our  bodies  part, 
We  shall  still  be  joined  in  heart: 
Though  affliction  o'er  us  rolls, 
Friendship  shall  unite  our  souls. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  139 

Oft,  before  the  Mercy  seat, 

Let  us,  for  each  other,  si;ek 

Blessings,  such  as  God  can  give, 

Or  our  needy  souls  receive  : 

In  each  state—on  land  or  sea, 

"As  our  day,  our  strength  may  be." 

Let  us  now  anew,  espouse 
Our  beloved  Master's  cause — 
Every  energy  enlist, 
With  our  heart,  and  hands,  assist, 
To  proclaim,  the  world  around, 
Full  salvation's  joyful  sound. 

Soon  we  '11  meet  to  part  no  more, 
Meet,  on  Canaan's  peaceful  shore — 
Meet,  in  worlds  of  endless  light — 
Meet,  to  shine  in  robes  of  white- 
Meet,  to  praise,  and  love,  adore, 
With  our  JESUS,  evermore. 

Happy,  happy  shall  wre  be, 
Happy,  through  Eternity : 
Let  us,  then,  with  courage,  bear 
All  our  toils  and  sufferings  here. 
What  our  Saviour  does,  is  well, 
Then  be  cheerful,  friends,  FABKWKLL. 
DEC.  12,  1845. 


MY    PORTION. 

There  's  nought  on  Earth,  below  the  Sun, 
That  I  can  truly  call  my  own, 

And  trust  thereon  secure  : 
Whate'er  its  nature,  or  its  name, 
It  rests  on  a  precarious  claim — 

A  title  msecure. 

A  precious  gift,  from  God  to  man — 
While  measuring  out  our  little  span 

Of  mortal  life — is  Time : 
But  quick  the  years  do  roll  away, 
Nor  will  a  single  moment  stay, 

Till  I  can  call  it  mine. 

Houses,  and  lands,  and  glittering  ore, 
Though  multiplied  from  shore  to  shore, 

Take  wings,  and  fly  away  : 
Naked  into  the  world  I  came, 
And  naked,  I  must  leave  the  same, 

Nor  do  I  know  the  day. 

Neighbors,  and  friends,  and  kindred  dear, 
By  whom  I  am  sur;  ounded  here, 

And  whom  I  fondly  love : 
Cut  down  upon  the  left  and  right, 
Are  snatched  forever  from  my  sight, 

While  in  this  world  I  rove. 

A  bosom  friend,  on  whom  we  lean, 
And  darling  children,  too,  who  seem 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  141 

To  be  an  earthly  prop, 
Are  sudden  torn  from  our  embrace, 
And  never  shall  we  see  their  face, 

While  in  this  vale  we  stop. 

To  Liberty—delightful  sound — 
My  tenure,  fteble  I  have  found, 

And  learned  't  was  not  my  own  ; 
While  cruel,  unrelenting  bands, 
With  wicked  and  oppressive  hands, 

Did  bind  and  crush  me  down. 

Nor  can  I  call  myself  my  own — 
This  truth,  the  Bible  has  made  known, 

And  may,  by  all,  be  read : 
Then,  fierce  diseases,  too,  invade, 
Which  tell  me  I  must  soon  be  laid, 

And  numbered  with  the  dead. 

Where'er  I  turn,  or  cast  my  eye, 
Around  the  Earth,  or  vaulted  Sky, 

And  view  each  flaming  Ball, 
One  certain  truth  I  clearly  read, 
Which  makes  the  hearts  of  mortals  bleed — 

lliT  UNCERTAIN — TRANSIENT — ALL.,^I 

• 

But  GOD  is  mine — my  portion  sure — 
Which  shall  to  endless  years  endure, 

Unchangeable— the  same : 
The  Earth  may  burn—the  Sun  decay, 
And  all  creation  melt  away — 

My  portion  shall  remain. 


142  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

In  all  His  fulness,  He  is  MINE— 
His  wisdom,  love,  and  power  divine, 

His  justice,  and  His  grace  : 
To  save,  defend,  and  be  my  guide, 
All  good,  as  I  have  need,  provide, 

Through  all  this  desert  waste. 

The  precious  propiises  I  own, 
As  firm  as  the  eternal  throne, 

All  given  on  demand ; 
For  every  want  that  man  can  know, 
In  every  strait  while  here  below, 

I  have  a  note  of  hand. 

A  Mansion,  Kingdom,  and  a  Crown, 
When  I  shall  lay  this  body  down, 

Is  mine — reserved  in  heaven  : 
Eternal  bliss,  and  glory  there, 
With  Saints,  and  Angels,  I  shall  share— 

For  now,  the  Earned  '&  given. 

Let  others  have  their  shining  gold— 
Their  treasures,  more  than  can  be  told— 

Their  honor  and  renown : 
Give  me  my  GOD— I  ask  no  more, 
But  glory  in  my  boundless  store, 

And  tread  their  trifles  down. 

My  hope  is  fixed  beyond  the  skies, 
Where  everlasting  pleasures  rise, 
And  sorrows  come  no  more — 
There  I  shall  see  my  glorious  Knag, 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.       143 

And  join  the  blood-washed  throng,  to  sing 
Loud  anthems  evermore. 

And  when  I  reach  that  happy  place, 
And  view  my  Saviour,  face  to  face, 

I '11  give  Him  highest  praise 
For  poverty,  affliction,  pain, 
In  yonder  world  from  whence  I  came — 

A  dark,  bewildering  maze. 

I  welcome,  then,  the  piercing  blast — 
For  O  !  though  sharp,  't  will  soon  be  past, 

And  waft  me  homeward  too  : 
Let  tempests  blow,  and  billows  roll, 
My  Captain  will  their  rage  control, 

And  bear  me  safely  through. 
DEC.  14,  1345. 


"WE    SEE    JESUS." 

"We  see  Jesus"— in  the  manger, 
Laid  upon  His  bed  of  hay  ; 
Born  from  home,  a  little  stranger, 
Where  the  beasts  are  wont  to  lay. 
See  Him  from  His  country  driven, 
Into  dreary  regions,  wild, 
By  the  royal  mandate  given, 
To  destroy  the  kingly  child. 

See  Him  sweet  obedience  giving, 
To  His  mother's  kind  commands; 
And,  with  Joseph,  for  a  living, 


144  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Sweat  and  toil  with  His  own  hands. 
When  arrives  the  time  appointed, 
See  Him  publicly  appear : 
With  the  Holy  Ghost  annointed, 
"This,  my  Son,  beloved,  hear." 

See  Him  round  the  country  going, 
And  the  Gospel  trumpet  blow  ; 
Hunger,  toil,  and  suffering,  knowing, 
To  redeem  our  souls  from  wo. 
On  the  water — weary,  sleeping  : 
In  the  Mount— all  night,  in  prayer; 
Over  hardened  sinners,  weeping, 
Who  refused  His  life  to  spare. 

See  His  works  of  love  and  wonder, 
On  the  poor,  the  blind,  the  lame  ; 
Death's  strong  fetters  burst  assunder, 
And  the  dumb  sound  forth  His  fame. 
But  we  see  Him  scorned  and  hated, 
Loaded  with  reproach  and  shame  ! 
Scojfs  and  insults,  unabated, 
Poured  upon  His  lovely  name  ! ! 

See  Him,  with  His  chosen,  seated 
Round  the  sacramental  board ; 
From  the  bustling  crowd  retreated, 
Special  comforts  to  afford. 
Lo  !  He  takes,  and,  with  His  blessing, 
Gives  the  sacred  emblems  round  : 
Precious  food  !  O,  how  refreshing 
Are  the  heavenly  symbols  found ! 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  145 

See  Him  in  the  Garden,  bleeding, 
Prostrate  on  the  damp,  cold  ground  : 
With  His  heavenly  Father  pleading, 
In  a  plaintive,  solemn  sound. 
Hark  !  in  agony  He's  crying, 
Crushed  to  earth  beneath  His  load  ! 
Swiftly  comes  an  Angel  flying, 
Bringing  help  and  strength  from  God. 

See  Him  now  surrounded,  taken 
By  His  ruthless,  cruel  foes  : 
Kiss'd,  betrayed,  by  friends  forsaken  ! 
Bound,  and  led  to  heavier  woes  ! 
Lo  !  He's  mocked,  condemned,  abused, 
Smitten  with  an  impious  hand  ; 
And  with  grievous  crimes  accused — 
While  the  "  dogs"*  around  Him  stand. 

See  Him  purple  mock-robes  wearing, 
Buffeted,  and  spit  upon  ! 
See  the  thorns  His  temples  tearing, 
And  the  blood  fast  trickling  down  ! 
O,  what  gentle,  heavenly  meekness  ! 
"  Like  a  lamb  to  slaughter  brought  :"f 
Toiling  'neath  His  Cross  in  weakness, 
Not  a  murm'ring  word  or  thought ! 

"  We  see  Jesus" — O  !  amazing  ! 
Stretched  between  the  heavens  and  earth  ! 
Crowds  are  gathered  round  Him  gazing — 


*Ps.  22:  16.' 
fls.58:  7. 


146  POEMS    0.\    TARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

With  them,  she  who  gave  Him  birth. 
While  with  pond'rous  spikes  they  nail  Him, 
Tear  His  hands,  and  pierce  His  feet : 
Pious  women  sore  bewail  Him, 
And  in  bitter  anguish  weep. 

See  Him  on  the  Cross  suspended, 
While  His  enemies  deride  : 
Insults,  with  His  sufferings  blended, 
And  reproaches  multiplied  ! 
Lo  !  the  Sun  the  sight  refuses, 
Solid  rocks  and  marble  rend  ! 
Death,  its  hold  on  many  looses — 
Earth,  convulsive  throes  doth  blend. 

See  Him  filled  with  gloom  and  anguish, 
When  Ills  Father  has  withdrawn  ; 
Leaving  Him  to  pine  and  languish, 
And  the  "  wine  press  tread  alone."  * 
See  them  trifle  with  His  groaning, 
When  He  thirsts,  give  bitter  gall  ! 
While  all  nature  is  bemoaning, 
Guilty  man  makes  light  of  all ! ! 

"  We  see  Jesus,"  hanging,  praying  ; 
"  Father,  O,  do  them  forgive  ; 
For  they  know  not  whom  they're  slaying, 
Spare,  O  !  spare  them — let  them  live." 
See  Him,  too,  His  soul  committing 
To  His  heavenly  Father's  hands ; 


*Is. 


POE.MS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.      147 

Then,  "  Tis  finished"— all  that's  written, 
Or  the  broken  Law  demands. 

"  We  see  Jesus,"  gasping,  dying — 
Sacrifice  for  sinful  man  ; 
And,  the  Soldier's  spear  applying, 
Down  the  crimson  torrent  ran. 
Now  is  opened  the  blest  "fountain 
For  uncleanness  and  for  sin  ;"* 
Come,  O,  come  to  Calvary's  mountain, 
Wash,  and  cleanse  your  souls  from  sin. 

"  We  see  Jesus,"  buried— rising 
On  the  third  appointed  day  : 
Priests,  and  Roman  Guard  surprising, 
Angels  roll  the  rock  away. 
Victory  !  to  our  Jesus  glorious — 
Victory  I  to  our  rising  King  : 
Over  every  foe  victorious, 
Death  ha?  lost  its  power  to  sting. 

See  Him  now  to  heaven  ascending, 
On  a  chariot  of  cloud  : 
And,  bright  Angels  Him  attending, 
Bear  Him  to  the  throne  of  God. 
There — we  see  Him  interceding 
For  His  suffering  followers  here  : 
Advocate  successful,  pleading. 
That  they  all  His  bliss  may  share. 

"  We  see  Jesus,"  there  preparing 
Thrones,  and  Mansions,  for  them  too  : 


*Ze<jh.  13:  1. 


148      POEMS  OX  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

Soon  we  shall  His  joy  be  sharing, 

And  His  glory  soon,  shall  view. 

See  Him  Doming  to  receive  us, 

On  a  cloud  of  dazzling  white. 

"  O  !  come  quickly,  come  Lord  Jesus," 

Waits  my  soul  to  take  its  flight. 

Now  lay  faith,  do  we  see  Jesus, 
As  our  only  righteousness, 
Who  from  sin's  dominion  frees  us, 
And  with  joy  and  peace  doth  bless. 
His  Redemption  is  our  own  glory, 
Which  He  purchased  by  His  death  ; 
And  we'll  tell  the  joyful  story, 
While  He  lends  us  mortal  breath. 

"  We  see  Jesus" — our  Example, 

All  our  earthly  journey  through  : 

Constantly  a  LIVING  SAMPLE, 

How,  in  every  case,  to  do. 

See  in  Him  a  fullness,  boundless, 

Equal  to  our  every  need  : 

So  that  doubts  and  fears  are  groundless, 

And  dishonor  Him  indeed. 

"  We  see  Jesus" — willing,  ready, 
All  His  blessings  to  impart  : 
When,  by  faith,  we  trust  Him  steady, 
And  receive  Him  in  our  heart. 
See  Him,  Mighty,  ever  nigh  us, 
In  each  danger  to  defend  ; 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  149 

Though  in  wisdom,  He  may  try  us, 
He  will  help  us  to  the  end. 

"  We  see  Jesus" — sight  reviving  ! 
Hope  of  sinners,  joy  of  saints  : 
O  !  to  be  new  views  deriving, 
Which  shall  silence  all  complaints. 
There's  no  object  in  creation, 
Can  compare  with  Him  we  love  : 
He  alone,  is  our  Salvation — 
He  is  all  the  theme  above. 
JAX.  3,  1846. 


THE  ANNUAL  CONCERT— FIRST  MONDAY  IN 
THE  YEAR. 

Upon  this   consecrated  day, 
Will  many  thousands  meet  to  pray  ; 
Before  the  Lord  to  fast,  and  plead 
The  Gospel's  universal  spread. 

From  East  to  West,  their  cries  ascend — 
From  North  to  South,  petitions  blend — 
In  every  land  where  Truth  doth  shine, 
Will  many  in  this  concert  join  : 

United  in  one  great  request, 
That  every  Nation  may  be  blest — 
The  glorious  Gospel's  joyful  sound, 
Be  published  all  the  earth  around  : 

That  darkness,  idols,  error's  sway, 
Before  its  influence  may  give  way — 


150  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Christ's  kingdom  come,  His  Avill  be  done, 
By  all  on  earth  below  the  Sun. 

O,  glorious  object !  Joyful  sight  ! 
To  see  the  hosts  of  God  unite 
In  this  great  work  of  faith  and  love, 
Which  brought  the  Savior  from  above. 

Lord,  speed  the  time  when  all  who  claim 
To  be  Thy  sons — of  every  name — 
Of  every  kindred,  tribe,  and  tongue- 
Shall  in  this  work,  unite  AS  ONE. 

Then  shall  Thy  Gospel  fly  abroad, 
As  far  as  human  foot  has  trod  : 
And  all  who  now  in  darkness  sit, 
Shall  bow  submissive  at  Thy  feet. 

With  Heralds,  in  a  Heathen  land, 
Work  Thou,  with  an  almighty  hand  : 
Subdue  the  Nations,  by  Thy  word, 
And  pour  Thy  Spirit  on  them,  Lord. 

O  !  hear  Thy  people's  prayers,  to  day, 
And  lead  the  pious  Youth  to  say, 
"  Here,  gracious  Lord,  am  I,  send  me, 
Where'er  I  can  most  useful  be." 

Thy  people  every  where,  arouse, 

With  willing  hearts,  this  work  t'  espouse ; 

And  never,  from  their  efforts  cease, 

Till  all  shall  own  Thee  "PiiiNCE  OF  PEACE.' 


DEATH   OF    WM.    GRIZZLE. 

He  was  a  Murderer — but  was  converted,  and  toiled  with  us, 
in  our  Prison,  more  than  three  years.  His  life  and  spirit,  there, 
were  emphatically,  Christian. 

A  fellow  Pris'ner,  called  our  toils  to  share, 
And  with  us,  griefs  and  suff 'rings  long  to  bear  ; 
With  whom  we  bow'd  before  the  Mercy  seat, 
And  oft  enjoyed  communion,  heavenly,  sweet — 
Of  that  dear  brother,  it  must  now  be  said, 
"  His  race  is  run — He's  numbered  with  the  dead." 

His  pathway  was  through  tribulation  deep, 
Which  tried  his  faith,  and  often  made  him  weep  : 
Surrounded,  oft,  by  many  a  threat'ning  cloud, 
With  dismal,  startling  sounds,  and  thund'rings  loud — 
Yet,  with  firm  confidence,  to  God  he  clung, 
And  of  Plis  loving-kindness  loudly  sung. 

When  by  his  bed-side,  we  could  kneel  and  pray, 
And  sing  the  songs  of  Zion,  night  or  day — 
Of  heaven,  and  Jesus'  love  could  freely  speak, 
And  all  the  precious  Promises  repeat  ; 
Bright  hope,  and  joy,  would  sparkle  in  his  eye, 
And  he  could  say,  "  I'm  not  afraid  to  die." 

His  wife  and  children,  in  believing  prayer, 
He  cast  upon  his  heavenly  Father's  care, 
To  feed,  defend,  instruct,  and  sanctify, 
And  fit  them  all  to  meet  above  the  sky  : 


152      POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

Then,  waiting  patient,  his  last  change  to  meet, 
He,  in  his  Savior,  sweetly  "fell  asleej}" 

Thus  are  his  toilings,  griefs  and  suff'rings  o'er  : 
And  now,  on  Canaan's  happy,  peaceful  shore, 
He'll  see  the  wisdom,  goodness,  love  of  God, 
In  all  the  pains  and  smartings  of  the  rod  : 
And  for  it  all,  will  praise,  adore,  and  love, 
With  all  the  blissful  company  above. 

O  !  happy  brother — what  a  glorious  change  ! 
Here,  suffering  prisoner — Now,  with  JESUS  reigns: 
Here,  cast-out,  scorned,  disfigured,  trodden  down, 
Now  honored  by  LMMAXUEL,  with  a  CROWN  ! 
From  earthly  prisons,  and  from  cruel  foes, 
To  heavenly  mansions,  and  to  GOD  he  goes  ! 


NO  EVIL  TO  THE  JUST. 
"  There  shall  no  evil  happen  to  the  just," 
Who  make  the  Lord,  their  only  hope  and  trust — 
Who  yield  with  pleasure  to  His  holy  will, 
Content  with  all  His  ways,  submissive,  still — 
Who,  in  His  wisdom,  faithfulness,  confide, 
And  ever  in  the  Saviour's  love  abide. 

All  such  are  SAFE — though  strong  the  tempests  blow, 
And  high  the  rolling,  surging  billows  flow  ; 
Though  loud,  incessant,  peals  of  thunder  roll, 
And  streams  of  lightning  dart  from  pole  to  pole — 
Though  Earth,  with  strong  commotions,  shake  and  reel, 
They're  SAFE— and  shall  NO  EVIL  fear,  or  feel. 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.      153 

Let  Kings  and  Monarchs  blend  their  mighty  power, 
And  join  with  fiends,  the  Righteous  to  devour — 
Let  fiery  persecution  rage  and  ilame, 
And  on  them  pour  reproaches,  scandals,  shame — 
Join  Earth  and  Hell  to  tread  them  in  the  dust, 
"  There  shall  NO  EVIL  happen  to  the  Just" 

By  fierce  diseases  they  may  be  brought  down, 
And  Providence,  awhile,  appear  to  frown — 
Their  friends  may  die— their  prospects  all  be  dashed, 
And  they  in  dreary  dungeons  long  be  cast — 
Dark  clouds  of  seeming  evils,  o'er  them  brood — 
But  all  shall  work  their  everlasting  GOOD. 

In  every  age  and  state — in  every  land, 

They  are  upheld  by  an  Almighty  Hand — 

Infinite  Wisdom  chooses  all  their  lot, 

And  sovereign  Goodness  sweetly  says,  "  Fear  not" — 

While  guardian  Angels  all  their  path  surround, 

To  stop  the  Lions'  mouths,  and  foes  confound. 

O  !  blessed  Promise  !  to  the  Kighteous  given, 
While  up  and  down  this  cruel  world  they're  driven— 
It  cheers  their  hearts— supports  them  in  distress- 
Arid  as  for  me,  let  others  curse  or  bless, 
Believe  this  soul-reviving  word  I  must — 
"  THERE  SHALL  NO  EVIL  HAPPEN  TO  THE  JUST." 


THE  LOVE  OF  CHRIST  CONSTRAINETH  ME." 

A  gospel  principle  within, 
Constrains  my  soul  to  hate  all  sin  ; 


154  POEM3    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

A  constant  war  with  it  to  make, 
Of  no  forbidden  fruit  partake, 
But  every  evil  way  forsake — 

"  The  love  of  CHRIST." 

Of  God's  free,  boundless  love  to  tell, 
And  save  lost  men  from  sin  and  hell  ; 
Redemption  loudly  to  proclaim, 
And  wand' ring  prodigals  reclaim — 
This  shall  my  warmest  zeal  inflame, 

"  The  love  oj  CHRIST." 

To  comfort  saints,  and  build  them  up, 
Or  when  they  drink  affliction's  cup, 
To  teach  them  how,  with  pure  desire, 
To  "  glorify  Him  in  the  fire," 
This  shall  my  melting  heart  inspire, 

"  The  love  of  CHRIST." 

Where  I  the  poor  and  needy  find, 
The  lame,  the  sick,  the  dumb,  the  blind, 
I  cannot  unaffected  stand  ; 
Whate'er  their  sufferings  may  demand, 
This  shall  provoke  my  liberal  hand, 

"  The  love  of  CHRIST." 

To  spread  the  Gospel  round  the  world, 
Till  Satan  from  his  seat  be  hurled — 
To  extend  our  Prince  Emaimel's  reign, 
O'er  every  kingdom,  tribe  and  name, 
Doth  all  my  energies  constrain, 

"  The  love  of  CHRIST." 


FOJBAIS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

A  living  sacrifice,  I  give 

Myself,  my  all,  for  Him  to  live— 

And  while  my  soul  on  Earth  remains, 

I  must  deny  all  other  claims. 

For  thus  His  bleeding  love  constrains — 

"THE  LOVE  OF   CHRIST.' 


DEPARTURE    OF  JAMES  E.  BURR,  FROM 
PRISON. 

My  brother,  beloved,  has  gone  ! 

So  long  my  companion  in  grief ; 
Four  years,  and  six  months  rolled  along 

Before  he  obtained  relief; 
Then,  open  the  prison  doors  flew, 

And  Liberty,  longed  for,  was  given  ; 
And  now,  with  delight,  he  can  view 

The  beauties  of  Earth  and  of  Heaven. 

He's  gone  from  his  Prison  of  gloom, 

To  meet  spirits  kindred  and  dear  ; 
Ah  !  here  he  did  languish,  and  swoon — 

There,  all  will  conspire  to  cheer  ; 
The  Righteous  will  gather  around--- 

With  singing  and  praying,  rejoice- 
In  raptures  of  joy  he  will  bound, 

The  Saviour  to  praise  with  loud  voice. 

To  toil  here,  and  sufferings,  farewell- 
Farewell,  iron  doors,  and  huge  walls  ; 
Farewell  to  the  "  hallowed  cell," 


156  I'OEMS    ON    VA1UOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Where  God  heard  and  answered  his  culls- - 
Where  oft  to  the  brink  of  the  grave, 

Disease  his  frail  body,  did  bring — 
Where  Jesus  was  might}-  to  save, 

And  raised  him,  of  mercy  to  sing. 

First  one,  now  the  other  has  left, 

My  Partners  in  gladness  and  wo  ; 
Of  all  kindred  spirits  bereft, 

For  comfort,  to  whom  shall  I  go  ? 
There's  none  here  my  burdens  can  share, 

To  whom  I  can  open  my  heart ; 
They  pity,  and  wonder,  and  stare, 

But  nono  understand e.tli  my  smart. 

But,  glory  to  God  and  the  Lamb  ! 

With  freedom  to  Him  I  can  go  : 
My  case  He  doth  well  understand, 

And  each  secret  feeling  doth  know — 
To  Him  I'll  unbosom  my  soul, 

For  lie  will  sweet  comfort  afford  ; 
And  while  the  high  waves  o'er  me  roll, 

I  humbly  will  wait  on  the  Lord. 

A  Pris'ner,  they  long  may  retain — 

With  locks,  bolts,  and  bars  keep  secure — 
This  body,  in  torturing  pain, 

While  reason  or  life  shall  endure— 
They  cannot,  no  cannot  they  bind, 

WThat  God  has  created  so  free — 
The  Spirit  immortal — the  MIXD — 

A  Slave  it  disdaineth  to  be. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  157 

From  dungeons  it  sallies  abroad, 

And  visits  Earth's  far  distant  shores ; 
Surveys  the  creation  of  God, 

And  Earth,  Seas,  and  Planets  explores— 
From  Arctic  to  Antarctic  flies, 

Where  Mortals  did  never  yet  tread  ; 
From  West,  to  behold  the  Sun  rise, 

And  view  the  life-giving  beams  spread. 

It  enters  the  Churches,  so  fair, 

Where  Saints  in  devotion  are  bow'd  ; 
And  joins  in  importunate  prayer, 

Or  harmonic  praises  aloud  : 
It  hastes  to  the  lonely  fire-side, — 

Where  kindred  and  friends  gather  round  ; 
Or  far  where  the  Heathen  abide, 

And  Heralds  in  labors  abound. 

It  soars  to  the  Heavenly  Throne, 

Where  Angels,  and  Saints  join  in  praise  ; 
Views  pleasures  to  mortal  unknown, 

And  glory  that  never  decays — 
Holds  converse  with  Jesus  the  King, 

And  infinite  blessings  receives  ; 
Returns  to  the  dungeon,  to  bring 

Sweet  comfort  to  him  that  believes, 

Then  bind  me  with  chains,  hand  and  foot, 
My  body  with  burdens  crush  down  ; 

Or  deep  in  foul  dungeons  be  put — 
And  all  men  with  enmity  frown — 

Yet  let  it  to  all  men  be  told, 


158  POEMS    ON    VAIUOUS    SUBJECTS. 

To  all,  who,  with  sorrows  are  bow'd — 
In  every  condition,  I  hold 

In  Spirit,  COMMUNION  WITH  GOD. 


DIALOGUES,  BETWEEN  TWO  PRISONERS. 

A  Prisoner,  who  was  converted,  after  ,T.  E.  B.  left,  cnme  to 
cell  with  me.  Between  him  and  myself,  the  following  dialogues 
took  place,  each  composing  his  own  part : 

XO.    I. — THE    HALLOWED    CELL. 

Joseph. 
With  you  I  've  come  to  dwell, 

And  serve  the  Lord  our  God, 
In  this  your  "hallowed  cell," 

Where  He  makes  His  abode : 
For  though  He  rules  the  hosts  above, 
Yet  here  He  dwells  in  peace  and  love. 

When  grief  o'erhangs  my  brow, 
And  darkness  clouds  my  soul, 
Then  you  will  tell  me  how 

My  feelings  to  control ; 
You  '11  teach  me  how  to  trust  in  God, 
And  meekly  kiss  His  chastening  rod. 

This  cell  shall  be  my  home, 

And  you  shall  be  my  friend, 
Till  God's  own  time  shall  come, 

Deliverance  to  send : 
Then  let  us  go  where  He  shall  lead, 
His  truth  to  show — His  lambs  to  feed. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  159 

George. 
A  hearty  welcome,  friend, 

To  this,  the  ''hallowed  cell;" 
In  prayer,  our  hearts  we  '11  blend, 

And  songs  of  Zion  swell. 
Together  joy — together  weep, 
And  live  in  fellowship  most  sweet. 

In  all  our  sorrows  here, 

Temptations,  trials,  pain, 
We  will  each  other  cheer, 

And  trust  in  Jesus'  name  ; 
His  love  to  us  shall  ne'er  abate, 
Nor  will  we  e'er  our  Lord  forsake. 

TJhough  sufferings  now  abound, 

Reproaches  on  us  pour — 
And  loudly  all  around 

The  hellish  Lions  roar : 
Yet  in  our  God  will  we  confide, 
And  safely  in  His  love  abide. 

In  cold  affliction's  hour, 

O  !  may  we  never  faint, 
Nor  give  the  Tempter  power, 

By  murmuring  or  complaint ; 
But  meekly  kiss  the  chastening  rod, 
And  bless  the  kindness  of  our  God. 

'T  is  Ilis  amazing  love, 

Inflicts  the  present  smart, 
To  draw  our  souls  above, 

And  purify  the  heart. 


160      POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

Then  let  us,  in  each  state,  rejoice, 

And  praise  His  name  with  cheerful  voice. 

Soon,  all  our  conflicts  o'er, 

We  '11  view  our  glorious  King, 
On  Canaan's  blissful  shore, 

Where  loud  hosannas  ring — 
And  join  the  everlasting  song, 
Of  the  celestial,  blood- washed  throng. 

Then  let  us  patient  wait, 

In  earnest,  humble  prayer ; 
In  every  earthly  strait, 

On  God  roll  all  our  care  : 
And  we  His  faithfulness  shall  see, 
That  "As  our  day,  our  strength  shall  be."    I 
MARCH  7,  184G. 


XO.    II. — TIIK    COXVEKT    INSTRUCTED. 

George. 
Dear  friend,   have  you  mourned  o'er   your  wand'rings 

from  God, 

And  sought  His  forgiveness,  through  Jesus'  blood- 
Sincerely  confessing  and  turning  to  Him — 
Forsaking  and  watching  against  every  sin  ? 

Joseph. 

I  have  mourned  my  folly,  and  more  so  will  do : 
(O  !  God,  by  Thy  Spirit,  my  proud  heart  subdue,) 
My  sins,  I  confess,  and  for  pardon  do  pray, 
Through  the  blood  of  the  Saviour— my  "Shield  and  my 
Star." 


FOE3IS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  1G1 

I  strive  to  forsake,  and  to  watch  against  sin, 
But  cunning  it  works,  my  affections  to  win  ; 
Yet  Jesus  will  pluck  the  vile  root  from  my  breast, 
Then  I  shall  be  free,  and  my  soul  sweetly  rest. 

George. 

Yes,  let  in  the  Saviour,  to  fill  up  your  heart, 
In  every  desire,  affection,  and  part : 
He  '11  drive  out  the  rebels,  and  conquer  your  foes, 
And  give  you  such  comfort  as  no  worldling  knows. 

Now  have  you  devoted — a  sacrifice  whole — 
To  Him,  and  His  service,  your  body  and  soul — 
To  love  and  adore  Him,  while  He  lends  you  breath, 
And  faithfully  serve  Him,  till  summoned  by  death  ? 

Joseph. 

To  God,  I  have  given  my  body  and  soul, 
My  time,  and  my  strength,  shall  be  His,  at  His  call  : 
All,  all  that  I  have,  I  devote  to  His  cause, 
To  love  Him,  and  serve  Him,  and  honor  His  laws. 

George. 

The  "lusts  of  the  flesh,"  do  you  strive  to  subdue, 
And  now  seek  to  know  what  for  Him  you  can  do? 
With  ardent  emotions  desiring  to  swell 
The  number  of  "Ransomed"  from  sin  and  from  Hell  ? 

Joseph. 

The  lusts  of  the  body  will  soon  be  subdued, 
No  more  shall  they  fiercely  upon  me  intrude ; 
For  Jesus  has  strengthened  my  arm  in  the  fight, 
And  soon  I  shall  conquer  them  all,  in  His  might. 


1C2  TOE1IS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Then  what  shall  I  do,  that  Ills  name  may  be  known, 
Who  saved  me  from  hell,  by  His  mercy  alone  ? 
I  '11  call  upon  sinners  to  come  to  His  cross, 
And  see  what  He  suffered  for  wretches  like  us. 

George. 

What  mercy  amazing!  that  led  us  to  tlmik^ 
When  pressing  so  madly  to  hell's  fiery  brink — 
That  snatched  us,  as  "brands,"  from  the  burning  abyss, 
And  taught  us  the  Rod,  in  submission,  to  kiss  ! 

All  glory,  dear  brother,  to  God,  on  His  throne, 
Let  each  of  us  give  Him,  for  what  He  has  done  ; 
From  praise  and  ^thanks  living,"  O  !  let  us  ne'er  cease, 
For  turning  our  feet  in  the  ways  of  His  peace. 

The  honors,  and  riches,  and  crown  of  a  King — 

The  shouts  and  applauses  which  make  the  Earth  ring — 

Or  smiles  of  your   GOD,    (though  the  world  you  should 

lose,) 
And  honors  of  usefulness — which  would  you  choose  ? 

Joseph. 

What  though,  with  loud  plaudits  the  air  should  resound — 
My  brow  be  encircled  with  laurels  around — 
Such  baubles  are  but  the  vain  dreams  of  a  day, 
They  glitter  a  season,  but  soon  fade  away. 

The  smiles  of  our  Father — O  !  measureless  joy  ! — 
Through  unceasing  ages,  our  praise  shall  employ  : 
I  '11  sacrifice  all  this  vain  world  can  afford, 
To  live  and  rejoice  in  the  smiles  of  the  Lord. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  1G3 

And  oh  !  to  be  useful,  in  spreading  His  name, 

And  wandering  sinners  to  teach  and  reclaim — 

To  feed  their  poor  souls  with  the  bread  He  has  given, — 

Let  this  be  my  work — O  !  my  Father  in  heaven. 

George. 

There  's  nothing  so  noble,  so  grand,  upon  Earth, 
(How  vain  the  distinctions  of  Rank  and  of  Birth  !) 
As  title  of  "CHRISTIAN,"  in  word  and  in  deed, 
And  striving,  to  Jesus,  poor  wand' rers  to  lead. 

This,  tills  is  the  object  for  which  we  exist — 
O !  may  the  blest  work  every  power  enlist, 
Thus  shall  we  resemble  our  Captain  and  Lord, 
Who  waits  to  bestow  an  eternal  reward. 

How  empty,  and  fleeting,  Earth's  pleasures  and  joys ! 
Deceptive,  and  mingled  Avith  many  alloys  ! 
Its  honors,  as  light  as  a  puff  that  is  blown — 
Its  wishes,  a  bubble,  that  bursts,  and  is  flown ! 

As  Christians,  such  trifles  we  are  to  despise, 
And  lay  up  our  treasure  and  hope  in  the  skies — 
Seek  only  the  honor  that  cometh  from  God, 
And  follow  in  paths  the  Redeemer  has  trod. 

My  spirit  rejoices,  dear  brother,  to  learn, 
That  over  lost  men,  your  compassions  do  yearn  : 
From  all  earthly  objects  can  turn  with  disdain, 
To  honor  our  blessed  Emanuel's  name. 

Joseph. 

Well,  can  I  be  useful  in  this  dreary  maze, 
In  showing  to  sinners  their  dangerous  ways  ? 


164      POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

In  bearing  true  witness,  that  God  will  forgive, 
If  sin  they  forsake,  and  for  Jesus  will  live  ? 

O  !  tell  me,  my  Brother,  if  aught  I  may  do, 
While  here,  I  am  suffering,  in  Prison,  with  you — 
The  hearts  of  our  fellows  in  sorrow,  to  move, 
And  bring  them  to  God,  who  is  Pity  and  Love  ? 

George. 

For  wise  and  kind  reasons,  to  Prison  we  're  brought, 
That  we  may,  to  God's  will,  submission  be  taught — 
To  see,  if  in  trouble,  to  Him  we  will  cling, 
And  in  each  condition,  His  praises  will  sing. 

Surrounded  by  those,  who  deride  holy  ways — 
Who  sneer  at  the  Christian,  and  mock  when  he  prays,- 
We  surely,  are  called  on  to  "  let  our  LIGHT  SHINE," 
And  bear  witness  true,  for  our  Master  divine. 

Joseph. 

But  have  you  forgot,  in  your  zeal  for  the  Lord, 
That  here,  we're  commanded  to  speak  not  a  word- 
Not  even  permitted  to  read,  sing,  or  pray, 
With  any  poor  Pris'ner,  by  night,  or  by  day  ? 

You  know  we  are  fettered — by  law,  are  tongue-tied, 
And  all  Christian  priv'leges  sternly  denied  ; 
We  view  anxious  sinners,  and  feeble,  weak  lambs, 
But  cannot  approach  them,  to  strengthen  their  hands. 

Though  some  are  now  panting  for  help,  by  the  way, 
We  scarcely  can  say  to  them,  "  Pray,  Brother,  pray  !" 
In  such  a  dilemma,  O  !  what  can  be  done, 
That  from  this  great  number,  we  may  rescue  some  ? 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.       1G5 

George. 

Yes,  yes,  it's  so,  truly,  but  still  we  can  speak, 
In  language  convincing,  and  accents  most  sweet — 
By  lioly  EXAMPLE,  we  loudly  can  preach, 
And  Sceptics  the  truth  of  Religion  can  teach. 

And  then,  a.  few  words,  we  can  drop,  here  and  there, 
(Which  Jesus  will  bless,  if  accompanied  with  prayer  ;) 
To  comfort  the  lambs,  and  proud  rebels  induce 
To  come  and  enlist,  in  the  service  with  us. 

O  !  watch  such  occasions,  and  zealous  improve — 
With  balm  of  the  Gospel,  the  suffering  soothe, 
Be  humble,  be  holy,  be  prayerful,  be  meek, 
And  wisdom  from  heaven,  continually  seek  ; 

Be  sober — though  sinners  are  trifling  and  vain, 
Be  kind  arvlforbearing— though  loaded  with  shame, 
Be  gentle  and  patient — though  falsely  accused, 
Be  mild,  &nd  forgiving — though  greatly  abused. 

In  every  condition,  be  cheerful  content ; 
And  ne'er  from  your  bosom,  a  murmur  be  sent, 
Thus,  in  your  EXAMPLE,  exhibit  each  grace, 
And  you  shall  be  useful  in  this  wicked  place. 

Joseph. 

O  !  what  a  bright  vision  now  bursts  on  my  sight  ! 
O  !  blessed  effusion  of  heavenly  light  ! 
For  now  I  perceive  we  in  silence  can  preach- 
By  "  holy  example?  great  lessons,  may  teach. 

My  gracious  Redeemer,  I'll  serve  in  this  way, 
And  loudly  will  preach  of  His  goodness,  each  day ; 


1G6      POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

From  morning  till  evening,  His  love  I'll  proclaim, 
And  then,  sing  at  night,  to  the  praise  of  His  name. 

George. 

Well,  Brother,  be  faithful,  while  here  you  remain — 
Your  sulf 'rings  and  labors  shall  not  be  in  vain. 
Wait  patiently,  through  fleeting  days  a  few  more, 
Till  unto  you,  God  shall  sweet  freedom  restore. 

Joseph. 

But  when  you  arc  gone,  and  from  bondage  are  free, 
Who  then  will  unite  in  devotion  with  me  ? 
Your  kindness,  and  counsels,  that  cheered  me  along, 
No  more  shall  I  hear — nor  your  voice  in  the  song. 

Your  chair  shall  be  empty — how  cheerless  and  void 
My  evenings  will  be,  when  you  're  not  by  my  side  ! 
But  oh  !  you'll  be  happy,  and  free — bless  the  Lord  ! 
And  I  will  find  comfort  in  reading  His  word. 

George. 

"Fear  not" — "be  courageous" — "believe"  and  "be  strong,'' 
The  Saviour  will  come  for  deliverance  e'er  long. 
He,  He  will  be  with  you,  in  every  strait, 
To  comfort,  revive  you,  and  never  forsake. 

Your  Prison  shall  more  than  Kings'  palaces  prove, 
If  you,  in  His  highway  of  Promise  will  move : 
Your  Brother,  and  constant  Companion,  He  '11  be, 
And  whisper,  "My  grace  is  sufficient  for  thee." 

Then  wait  on  the  Lord,  and  His  faithfulness  trust, 
Though  long,  by  affliction,  you  sorely  are  crush'd— 


TOEM3    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  167 

If  clouds  of  dense  darkness  should  over  you  brood, 
Remember  that  "ALL  THINGS  shall  work  for  your  good" 

Josepfi. 

Yes,  yes,  I  will  constantly  wait  on  the  Lord, 
And  trust  in  His  promises — every  word. 
Fear  never  shall  move  me,  while  God  is  rny  Friend : 
Whatever  betide,  I  '11  be  true  to  the  end. 

But,  Brother,  when  God  shall  deliverance  bring— 
The  doors  of  my  Prison  wide  open  shall  fling — 
Shall 't  be  that  thenceforth  I  should  live  to  myself, 
In  seeking  for  honor,  or  hoarding  up  pelf  ? 

No  !  no  !  in  His  service  I  still  will  abide, 
And  boldly  declare  that  I  am  on  His  side. 
I'll  labor,  that  sinners  in  Flim  may  be  free — 
The  smiles  of  His  count'nance  my  wages  shall  be. 

The  world  and  its  pomp,  I  will  scorn  and  reject — 
The  work  of  the  Lord,  I  will  never  neglect : 
Then  tell  me,  my  Brother,  what  course  to  pursue, 
Thatgoorf  be  accomplished  in  all  that  I  do. 

George. 

Well,  two  ways  I  '11  mention — Go  take  you  a  wife, 
Repair  to  your  farm-house,  or  work-shop,  for  life  ; 
There  live  in  enjoyment  and  ease  with  your  spouse, 
And  give  a  small  mite,  now  and  then,  to  God's  cause.* 

*  This  is  said  to  try  him — it  bcdng  the  way  the  great  mass  of 
professing  Christians  live :  but  may  the  spirit  of  this  Prison 
Convert  shame  their  narrow-mindedness. 


168  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Joseph. 

How  poorly  requited  rny  Saviour  would  be, 
For  His  loving  kindness  and  mercy  to  me, 
Were  I  and  my  wife  to  court  pleasure  and  ease, 
And  hope  that  a  mile,  would  our  conscience  appease  ! 

George. 

Then  labor  the  harder,  and  save  all  you  can, 
By  living  on  old  friend  Frugality's  plan ! 
In  acts  of  beneficence  largely  abound, 
And  speak  of  Salvation  to  neighbors  around. 

Joseph. 

'Tis  better— and  yet  I  must  venture  to  say, 
All  this  might  be  done,  as  it  were,  by  the  way : 
Could  I  not  still  further  my  labors  extend, 
And  yet  not  to  great  erudition  pretend  ? 

George. 

O  !  Glory  to  Jesus,  that  you  do  aspire, 
With  such  an  unquenchable,  ardent  desire, 
To  spend,  and  be  spent  in  the  work  of  your  King, 
And  all  in  His  Realm  in  allegiance  to  bring. 

Come,  give  your  attention,  and  I  will  explain 
How  you  can  most  honor  Emanuel's  name. 
To  do  this,  if  I  understand  you  aright, 
Is  all  your  desire,  and  all  your  delight. 

Joseph. 

Yes,  this  is  my  wish,  both  at  home  and  abroad, 
(A  vow  I  have  made,  on  my  knees,  unto  God:) 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  1G9 

My  joy  it  shall  be  while  my  life  shall  remain. 
Go  on,  then,  I  'm  eager  to  hear  you  explain. 

George. 

Well,  look  o'er  the  Nations,  in  darkness  who  moan, 
Beyond  where  the  light  of  the  Gospel  hath  shone  — 
Twice  three  hundred  millions,  in  ignorance  grope, 
Who  never  yet  heard  of  the  Saviour,  our  Hope. 

Enveloped  in  Error  —  enshrouded  with  Night  ; 
Their  deeds  are  appalling,  and  shocking  to  sight  : 
The  "Prince  of  this  world,"  with  tyrannical  hand, 
Sways,  proudly,  his  scepter,  o'er  all  that  dark  land. 

Before  wooden  gods,  beasts,  and  reptiles  they  fall  I 
On  Sun,  Moon,  and  Stars,  and  stone  idols  they  call  !  ! 
^iT  The  father  will  sacrifice  to  them  his  Son  !  !  ! 
And  think,  b/  so  doing,  their  favor  is  won  !  !  !  ! 

liiT  The  Mother  will  bury  her  children  alive  ! 
While  neighbors  and  friends  at  the  outrage  connive  : 
Or  cast  them  in  Rivers,  where  Crocodiles  play  ! 
And  fatten  on  thousands  of  innocent  prey  !  ! 


children  will  murder  their  parents,  when  old  ! 
The  women,  as  drudges,  in  bondage  they  hold  ; 
And  then  when  their  masters  do  breathe  out  their  last, 
Themselves,  on  the  high  burning  pile  they  will  cast  ! 

Uplifted  on  hooks,  through  the  air  will  they  swing, 
While  shouts  of  the  multitude  make  the  Earth  ring  ! 
And  multiplied  tortures,  they  tager  endure, 
In  hope,  thus,  the  smiles  of  their  gods  to  secure  1  1 
9 


170      POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

Uncleanness,  and  vices  of  all  kinds,  prevail, 
More  numerous  than  I,  at  the  present,  can  tell : 
In  vain  superstitions,  they  greatly  abound, 
Because  they  know  not  of  the  Gospel's  glad  sound. 

Thus,  in  their  pollutions,  they  sink  down  to  hell, 
With  Devils,  in  torments,  forever  to  dwell !  ! 
Here,  Brother,  there  is  an  abundance  of  work, 
In  which  you  can  every  power  exert. 

Joseph. 

How  wretched  is  man,  without  knowledge  of  God ! 
(O !  Lord,  send  the  sound  of  Thy  Gospel  abroad.) 
His  nature,  how  savage  !  his  heart,  how  depraved  ! 
O  !  could  not  those  Heathen,  through  Jesus,  be  saved  ? 

Will  not  our  Redeemer,  in  mercy  and  love, 
Such  horrible  scenes  from  among  them  remove  ? 
His  cross-waving  banner,  amid  them  unfurl, 
Till  all  idol  gods,  to  destruction  they  hurl ? 

Are  men  to  be  found  who  will  carry  it  there, 

And  all  its  glad  tidings  unto  them  declare  ? 

O  !  would  /  were  now  where  such  darkness  doth  reign, 

Proclaiming  the  name  of  the  Lamb  that  was  slain. 

If  Heralds  of  mercy  were  sent  to  unfold 
The  riches  of  Jesus — more  precious  than  gold — 
Would  Heathens  receive  them  with  gladness  of  heart, 
And  hear  the  instructions  they  had  to  impart  ? 

Georc/f. 

Yes,  "Lift  up  your  eyes,  and  behold  the  fields"  ripe, 
Most  beauteously  waving,  for  harvest,  "all  white" — 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  171 

As  far  as  the  eye  can  extend,  there  appears 
A  bountiful  prospect  of  rich,  golden  ears. 

The  night  of  exclusion,  in  China,  is  o'er, 
And  ten  thousand  Lab'rers  are  needed,  and  more, 
To  show  them  the  way,  the  great  God  has  prepared, 
To  honor  His  law,  while  the  Sinner  is  spared. 

And  so,  in  Borneo,  Malacca,  Siam, 
They  're  waiting  to  hear  of  this  wonderful  plan  ; 
In  Burmah,  Hindoostan,  Madeira,  Ceylon, 
Is  laid  a  broad  basis  to  build  now  upon. 

In  Persia,  and  Syria,  and  fam'd  Palestine, 
The  light,  in  bright  beams,  is  beginning  to  shine  ; 
In  Turkey,  Armenia,  and  old  learned  Greece, 
Are  many,  now  sueing,  through  Jesus,  for  peace. 

From  Senegal,  Gambia,  and  noted  Mendi, 
They  lift,  for  our  help,  their  importunate  cry ; 
At  Guinea,  Gaboon,  Ethiopic  Pangwee, 
The  country,  for  Lab'rers,  is  open  and  free. 

And  Natal,  Caifraria,  and  regions  along, 
1  '11  mention  among  the  vast  suppliant  throng ; 
Who,  ages,  in  darkness  and  error  have  dwelt, 
But  now  loudly  cry,  "O,  come  over  and  help." 

"The  isles  of  the  Ocean,"  the  Prophet  once  saw, 

Demolish  their  idols,  and  "wait  for  God's  law  !" 

From  South    Seas,   and  Northern — the    West,  and   the 

East, 
They  wait  for  a  call  to  the  rich  Gospel  feast. 


172      POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

And  in  our  own  country,  here  where  we  abide, 
Are  thousands  of  Indians,  who  live  by  our  side — 
Oppressed,  and  abused,  by  the  servants  of  State, — 
O  !  should  not  all  Christians,  to  save  them,  awake  ? 

In  every  dominion,  and  nation,  and  tribe, 
A  door  to  be  useful,  is  now  opened  wide  : 
The  world  is  awaking,  the  Truth  to  obey, 
But  soon  will  grasp  Error,  if  yet  we  delay  ! 

It  will  be  converted — the  work  must  be  done — 
"The  Heathen"  are  given,  by  God,  to  His  Son. 
This,  this  is  the  work  of  His  militant  host, 
And  this  is  the  way  we  can  honor  Him  MOST. 

To  save  a  lost  world,  came  the  Saviour  to  Earth — 
For  this,  the  Apostles  did  publish  His  birth — 
And  in  ancient  times  all  the  saints  of  the  Lord 
Went  every  where  to  make  known  the  same  word. 

If  you  will  most  honor  your  Saviour  and  God, 
Or  tread  in  the  paths  the  old  worthies  have  trod, 
Then  haste  to  the  HEATHF.X,  and  loudly  proclaim, 
The  glad  news  of  Pardon,  through  Him  that  was  slain. 

Joseph. 

With  eager  delight,  I  would  enter  the  field, 
That  promises  fruit,  in  abundance,  to  yield, 
And  labor  with  joy,  while  the  Lord  gives  me  strength, 
That  all  may  redound  to  His  glory,  at  length. 

But  ah  !  I  am  ignorant — grievously  so ! 

On  such  a  great  mission,  how  then  could  I  go  ? 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  173 

I  fear  I  will  never  be  able  to  preach, 

For  chances  of  learning  seem  now  out  of  reach. 

George. 

No,  no,  Brother — no — conclude  not  thus,  in  haste — 
For  I  hare  the  pleasure  to  speak  of  a  place, 
Where  all  needful  learning,  e'en  you  can  obtain, 
To  fit  you  for  publishing  Jesus'  name. 

Joseph. 

But  silver  and  gold,  I  have  none — neither  friends, 
Nor  means  to  promote  such  desirable  ends. 
My  mallet  and  chisel*  is  all  my  support, 
And  man's  learning  season,  you  know,  is  but  short. 

George. 

No  matter,  if  silver  and  gold  you  have  not — 
It  is  a  devoted  and  hallowed  spot 
For  all  pious  youth,  though  they  're  ever  so  poor, 
If  hardship,  and  toil,  they  are  willing  t'  endure. 

Where,  with  an  intense  application  of  mind, 
They,  most  useful  training,  and  knowledge  shall  find, 
To  gird  and  equip  them,  with  vigor  to  fight, 
In  turning  the  Nations  from  darkness  to  light. 

For  Books,  and  Instruction,  is  asked  no  repay — 
All  find  their  own  living,  work,  study,  and  pray — 
And  to  this  blest  "school  of  the  Prophets,"  can  you, 
Go  work  with  your  hands,  and  your  studies  pursue. 

Remember,  it  is  to  be  useful,  we  live — 
For  this,  did  our  Father  our  faculties  give, 

*  He  is  a  stone  cutter. 


174      POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

That  "Lab'rers  together  with  Him,"  we  might  be, 
And  offer  to  all  men,  His  mercy,  so  free. 

Joseph. 

The  prospect  now  brightens — my  heart  beats  anew — 
Yea,  now  I  can  see  all  I  wish,  at  a  view. 
God,  surely,  looks  down  with  ineffable  grace, 
On  that  Institution — that  hallowed  place. 

He  surely  looks  down,  from  His  palace  above, 
To  bless  such  a  school,  with  the  smiles  of  His  love. 
O  !  that  I  were  there,  if  to  do  nothing  more, 
Than  labor  for  bread,  for  the  weakly  and  poor. 

If  God  will  permit,  I  will  go,  with  great  joy, 
My  faculties  zealously  there  to  employ. 
Who  knows  but  I  yet  may  be  able  to  bring 
A  great  many  Heathen  to  Jesus,  their  King  ? 

How  vast  are  the  fields  you  have  opened  to  view, 
All  parching  for  lack  of  the  heavenly  dew — 
The  dew  that  the  Spirit  distils  on  the  soul, 
When  washed  in  the  blood  of  the  Lamb,  and  made  whole- 
Alas  !  that  such  myriads  of  minds  should  remain 
In  darkness  and  error — still  bowing  in  vain 
To  idols,  set  up  by  their  own  foolish  hands  ! 
Such  wretched  delusion,  our  pity  demands. 

Not  merely  to  pity— not  only  to  feel — 

But  boldly  to  act,  and  to  labor  with  zeal, 

To  carry  the  Gospel  to  every  land — 

This,  this  must  be  done— 'tis  Messiah's  command. 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.       175 

And  shall  I  still  linger,  when  He  has  said  "Go, 
And  I  will  be  with  you,  and  comfort  you  too  ?" 
No,  Lord,  my  delight  is  to  wait  upon  Thee, 
And  go  where  Thou  biddest,  by  land  or  by  sea. 

I  will  go — I  will  go — I  '11  waver  no  more — 
EmanuePs  banner  is  floating  before. 
Down,  down  with  dumb  idols,  and  ignorance  gross — 
For  now  must  be  raised  the  bright  flag  of  the  Cross. 

George. 

O  !  dear,  loving  Brother,  haste,  haste  to  prepare — 
O  !  hasten  to  save  them  from  death  and  despair ! 
They  're  waiting  from  you  to  receive  the  glad  word. 
O !  hasten  therewith,  in  the  name  of  the  Lord. 

Thus,  hundreds  of  thousands  will  bless  you,  on  high, 
That  your  heart  was  moved  by  their  piteous  cry  ; 
And  you  will  rejoice,  when  you  hear  them  all  sing, 
Adoring,  forever,  their  Saviour  and  King. 

But  should  you  refuse — (O  !  awful  to  tell !) 

These  hundreds  of  thousands  may  sink  down  to  hell, 

And  rise  up  in  Judgment  to  curse  you  aloud, 

For  bringing  them  not,  the  true  knowledge  of  God. 

A  Herald  of  Christ,  and  His  cross,  sooner  be — 
Though  for  it,  the  loss  of  all  things  you  should  see, 
Though  kindred   and    friends  should   forsake  ^,ou   with 

scorn, 
And  all  earthly  prospects  should  seem  most  forlorn — 

Than  ever  consent  to  sit  down  at  your  ease, 

Though  friends,  sin,  and  Satan  should  constantly  tease, 


176      POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

Or  Monarchs  should  offer  to  crown  you  with  gold — 
Be  Jirm,  and  decided,  and  preach  the  Truth  bold. 

Your  robe  shall  be  richer  than  Emperors  wear, 
Your  crown  shine  far  brighter  than  their  dazzling  glare ; 
And  long  after  their's  shall  have  mouldered  away, 
Will  glow  with  rich  splendor,  in  unending  day. 

Joseph. 

I  thank  Thee,  O,  Lord,  that  my  Brother,  and  Friend, 
Has  taught  me  these  lessons — O  !  then  may  I  spend 
My  efforts,  with  him,  in  a  far  distant  land, 
And  there  be  united,  in  heart  and  in  hand. 

We  've  labored  together  in  Prison  and  pain — 
Then  may  we  not  labor  together  again  ? 
O  !  send  us  to  those  who  in  darkness  do  lie, 
To  reap  a  rich  harvest  before  we  shall  die. 

George. 

Amen,  gracious  Father !  O,  hear  this  our  prayer, 
For  His  sake  alone,  who  our  sorrows  did  bear. 
Now,  Brother,  here  is  both  my  heart  and  my  hand, 
To  labor  with  you,  in  a  dark  Pagan  land. 
PENITENTIARY,  March  17,  184G. 


THE    BOWER    OF    PRAYER, 

When  I  was  in  youth,  and  surrounded  with  mirth, 
Which  strove  to  entice  me,  and  bind  me  to  Earth, 
I  found  pleasures  richer,  delightful  and  rare, 
Retired  alone,  in  my  Bower  of  prayer. 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.       177 

My  Brothers  and  Sisters,  and  fond  Parents,  dear, 
Oft  sought,  with  great  pleasure,  my  bosom  to  cheer  ; 
When  sick  or  afflicted  no  efforts  did  spare — 
But  sweeter  to  me,  was  my  Bower  of  prayer. 

Kind  neighbors  and  friends,  in  abundance  I  had, 
Whose  sweet  Christian  fellowship  made  my  heart  glad ; 
But  friendship,  more  precious  and  pure,  did  I  share, 
With  Jesus,  alone,  in  my  Bower  of  prayer. 

When  troubles  or  trials,  my  mind  sorely  press'd, 
Or  aught  from  within,  or  without  me  distress'd  : 
O  !  then  't  was  reviving  to  roll  all  my  care 
On  Jesus,  my  Friend,  in  the  Bower  of  prayer. 

In  stillness  of  evening,  when  floats  the  cool  breeze, 
In  soft,  gentle  whispers,  among  the  thick  trees, 
Or  catching  the  early,  health-bracing  air — 
'T  was  sweet  to  go  kneel  in  my  Bower  of  prayer. 

Long  shut  up  in  Prison,  where  wickedness  reigns, 
And  thickly  surrounded  by  oaths,  whips,  and  chains  ; 
While  trials,  reproaches,  and  suff 'rings  I  bear — 
O !  how  I  do  long  for  my  Bower  of  prayer. 

When  from  this  confusion,  these  curses  and  noise, 
Which  greatly  my  comfort  and  peace  now  annoys, 
My  gracious  Redeemer  shall  freedom  declare — 
O  !  how  I  will  prize  my  sweet  Bower  of  prayer. 

Though  long  a  poor  exile,  and  captive,  I  moan, 
Away  from  my  kindred— away  from  my  home — 


178  FOEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Or  unto  some  far  distant  country  repair — 
I'll  ever  remember  my  BOWER  OF  PRAYER. 
PENITENTIARY,  March  17.  1846. 


BUKNING    OF    TIIEOPOLIS   CHAPEL. 

The  MISSION  INSTITUTE  is  situated  in  Illinois,  about  two 
^mi'es  from  the  Mississippi  River.  The  sentiments  of  Anti- 
"Slavery  were  freely  discussed,  and  boldly  maintained,  by  all 
the  Students  and  Colonists.  MISSOUKIAXS  possessed  an  invet 
erate  ha'red  toward  the  people  and  place,  and  often  made  their 
boasts  and  threats  that  they  would  destroy  the  ''Abo  ition  Insti 
tute,"  and  all  connected  with  it— the  women  excepted — who 
were  advised  to  save  themselves,  by  leaving  the  place.  For 
some  time,  a  strong  Guard  was  stationed  around  the  Institute, 
for  its  defence  ;  but  when  the  most  of  the  citizens  were  absent, 
in  Quincy,  attending  a  protracted  meeting,  in  Feb.,  1843,  (I 
think.)  the  Ch'ipcl,  containing  the  Institute  Library,  and  other 
valuables,  was  burned  to  the  ground,  by  a  company  who  came 
from  Missouri — a  distance  of  some  30  miles. 

|T  was  on  a  sable,  silent,  wintry  night, 
When  lo  !  a  fiendish  throng,  with  armed  might, 
Sworn-bound  by  oaths  and  imprecations  strong, 
That  they  would  neither  sleep  nor  join  in  song, 
Till  they  our  Holy  House  in  ruins  laid, 
Which  for  the  worship  of  our  God  was  made  : 

With  quickened,  cautious,  and  with  guilty  step, 
When  all  was  still,  and  honest  people  slept, 
Hastened  where  Love  maintained  her  quiet  reign, 
And  all  was  sacred  to  Jehovah's  name — 
Their  work  of  outrage  eager  to  begin, 
And  thus  immortal  INFAMY  to  win. 

So  when  Missouri's  band  had  gathered  there, 
And  stood  surrounding  our  sweet  house  of  prayer, 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS     SUBJECTS.  179 

Quickly,  with  impious,  sacrilegious  hands, 
They  thrust  therein  the  naming  fire-brands ; 
And  deadly  bombs  of  powder,  placed  beneath, 
To  murder  all  who  came  to  its  relief  ! 

Then,  villain-like,  before  the  dawn  of  day, 

They  fiercely  drove  their  steeds,  to  haste  away— 

Nor  ceased,  till  King  of  Rivers  rolled  between, 

Lest  they,  by  human  beings  should  be  seen — 

Afraid  to  meet  an  honest,  white  man's  stare, 

Though  armed  with  pistols,  clubs,  and  dirks,  they  were. 

But  ah  !  the  mournful  and  distressing  sight ! 
Our  little  Hamlet  is  illumed  by  night, 
With  lurid  flames,  which  from  our  Temple  rise 
In  glowing,  winding  columns  to  the  skies— 
Before  the  throne  of  heaven  to  proclaim 
The  Arson,  and  each  perpetrator's  name. 

Now  higher  yet  they  rise,  and  still  increase, 
Nor  will  a  moment,  from  their  raging  cease, 
For  all  the  sighing,  tears  and  groans  that  blend, 
And  with  them  to  the  throne  of  God  ascend ! 
Distressing  sight !     Our  Library  is  doomed 
To  be,  in  the  proud  element,  consumed ! 

Ah !  see  those  Bibles— precious  more  than  gold— 
And  many  books  of  ancient  date,  which  told 
Of  wondrous  things,  and  light  in  by-gone  days— 
And  our  sweet  ''Songs  of  Zion" — hymns  of  praise — 
Greek,  Latin,  Hebrew— Classics— many  names— 
Ah !  there  they  go,  ascending  with  the  flames  ! ! 


180  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Crash  !  crash  !  the  structure  tumbles  to  the  ground . 

Bang !  bang !  the  bombs,  with  a  loud,  thundering  sound. 

But,  by  a  watchful,  providential  care, 

No  one  is  injured,  even  to  a  hair. 

Thus,  missed  our  enemies,  their  deadly  aim— 

For  they  who  trust  in  God,  trust  not  in  vain. 

To  cap  the  climax  of  iniquity, 

That  they  might  genuine  "Diabolians"  be, 

They  sneakingly  retired  to  their  den  : 

From  whence  they  issued  forth  by  night — and  then, 

Just  like  their  Sire  APOLLYON,  roared  aloud, 

And  charged  this  monstrous  outrage  upon  GOD  ! !  ! 

And  thus  they  spoke.     ''We  did,  indeed,  depart 

With  this  determination  in  our  heart — 

The  Abolition  Institute  to  uuitx. 

But  e'er  we  there  arrived,  this  news  did  learn, 

That  God,  before  us,  had  the  work  performed,  (!) 

For  which  we  left  our  friends  and  neighbors,  armed  !"* 

Blasphemous  FALSEHOOD  !     Daringly  profane  ! 
For  my  own  ears,  heard  once,  and  then  again, 
From  those  who  with  them,  in  their  caverns  live, 
Applaud  the  act,  and  countenance  do  give — f 
That  "For  this  purpose,,  they  DTD  THERE  PROCEED, 
Nor   turned  back,   TILL  THEY   MAD   DONE   THE 
DEED"  ! ! 

Though  soon  we  had  another  Chapel  built, 
Inscribed  with  pen  of  iron,  is  their  guilt, 

*  In  the  Hannibal  paper — Marion  Co.  Mo. 

f  Once  from  a  visitor,  and  once  from  Joel  Kichmond. 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.       181 

Which  nothing  but  repentance  can  erase, 
And  a  free  pardon  from  the  God  of  grace — 
And  then,  as  loyal  subjects  of  our  King, 
We'll  hail  them  BRETHREN,  and  together  sing. 


FOR    SABBATH    MORNING 

Welcome,  reviving  day ! 

We  hail  thy  kind  return  : 
Ye  worldly  cares,  away — 

Your  calls,  to-day,  we  spurn. 
In  honor  of  our  glorious  King, 
We  '11  join  to  read,  and  pray,  and  sing. 

This  morning,  from  the  grave, 

Our  conquering  Leader  rose  : 
Almighty  now  to  save — 

Triumphant  o'er  His  foes. 
Then  will  we  seek  His  saving  grace. 
And  joy  to  view  His  smiling  face. 

Upon  this  day,  of  old, 

Did  ancient  Christians  meet, 
Sweet  fellowship  to  hold, 

And  worship  at  His  feet. 
And  we  will  gladly  do  the  same, 
And  magnify  His  holy  name. 

A  day  of  calm  repose, 

From  toils  and  tumults  loud— 

A  soothing  balm  for  woes, 

And  hearts  with  sorrow  bow'd. 


182      POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

O,  may  our  souls  be  richly  blest, 
And  sweetly  on  the  Sabbath  rest. 

A  day  to  search  our  heart, 

And  try  our  ways  with  care  ; 
With  every  sin  to  part, 

Nor  any  idol  spare. 
Teach  us  ourselves,  O,  gracious  God, 
And  lead  in  paths  the  Saviour  trod. 

A  day,  new  strength  to  gain, 

Fresh  courage,  patience,  faith, 
To  bear  reproach  and  shame, 

And  faithful  be  to  death. 
O  !  gird  us,  Lord,  to  run  our  race, 
And  quicken  our  dull,  slothful  pace. 

A  day  of  special  joy, 

Of  gladness,  of  peace  : 
May  nought  our  minds  employ, 

But  how  we  may  increase 
In  gospel  holiness  indeed, 
And  all  mankind  to  Jesus  lead. 

A  day  of  lioly  time — 

To  Jesus,  sacred,  all : 

Let  us  "arise  and  shine," 

According  to  His  call. 

O  !  keep  us,  Lord,  from  every  sin. 

Both  going  out  and  coming  in. 

A  bright,  refreshing  Type 
Of  endless  bliss  above ; 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.      183 

Where  faith  is  changed  to  sight, 

And  every  heart  is  love. 
O  !  may  we  so  its  hours  improve, 
As  thence  will  fit  us  to  remove. 

When  here  our  work  is  o'er, 

Eternity  we  '11  spend 
On  that  delightful  shore, 

Where  Sabbaths  never  end. 
There,  with  King  Jesus,  we  shall  dwell, 
And  high  our  notes  of  rapture  swell. 
MARCH  21,  1846. 


THE  HEART  AND  THE  HAND. 

She,  who  is  now  my  wife,  when  making  her  last  visit  to  me, 
in  Prison,  on  leaving,  gave  rne  a  paper  heart  and  hand,  wov^n 
together,  which  gave  rise  to  the  following. 

With  much  prayer  and  counsel,  we  each  gave  our  word, 
(Recorded  in  heaven,  for  all  was  there  heard,) 
Through  life's  dreary  maze,  by  each  other  to  stand — 
And  gave,  as  a  pledge,  both  the  heart  and  the  hand. 

But  soon  sore  afflictions  and  trials  came  on, 
Which  blasted  our  prospects,  and  darkened  our  dawn  : 
Long  parted — one  dwelt  in  a  hostile,  strange  land ; 
Yet,  still ,  each  of  each,  had  the  heart  and  the  hand. 

The  dungeon  was  lightened — the  sorrows  were  soothed — 
The  years  quickly  pass'd — and  the  roughness  was  smooth 
ed— 

Nor  grievous  did  seem  the  Oppressor's  demand — 
Because  thus  united  in  heart  and  in  hand. 


184 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 


Our  friends  may  forsake  us — our  foes  may  unite, 
And  join  all  their  efforts  our  fond  hopes  to  blight — 
The  loud  calls  of  Mercy  and  Justice  withstand — 
They  cannot  us  sever,  in  heart  and  in  hand. 

And  when,  here  below,  we're  permitted  to  meet, 
In  praises  we  '11  join,  and  in  fellowship  sweet ; 
For  God  we  will  live,  and  where  He  shall  command, 
Go  labor— united  in  heart  and  in  hand. 

Our  toils  and  temptations  will  soon  all  be  o'er, 
And  then  we  shall  meet  on  yon  fair  blissful  shore — 
Meet  Angels  and  Saints  in  Emanuel's  land, 
Forever  united  in  HEART  AND  IN  HAND. 


DIALOGUE— No.  3. 

PERFECTION. 

Joseph. 

O  !  that  I  could  to  Jesus  flee, 
With  faith  unwavering  like  thee — 
In  every  circumstance  to  feel, 
That  He  my  every  wound  can  heal- 
That  all  my  lusts  He  can  subdue, 
And  ivill,  if  I  believe  Him  true  : 
But  unbelief,  (O  !  cursed  bane,) 
Still  doth  my  longing  soul  restrain. 

How  shall  I  drive  the  fiend  away, 
That  tells  me  't  is  in  vain  to  pray 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.       185 

For  perfect  holiness  and  love, 
Before  I  reach  my  home  above  ? 

George. 

Come,  go  with  me  to  Calvary's  mount, 
And  all  the  sufferings  recount, 
Of  Him  who  died  to  save  from  .sm. 
And  our  most  ardent  love  to  win. 

For  you  He  wept  and  bled  and  died— 
For  you  were  pierced  His  hands  and  side  : 
He  bore  your  sins  upon  the  tree, 
And  wrought  salvation  full  and  free— 

A  balm  for  every  wound  procured— 
For  every  sin,  deep  pangs  endured — 
For  every  case,  provision  made, 
That  none  need  ever  be  dismayed. 

Now  hear  His  voice — "Ye  weary,  come, 
Whate'eryou  ask  in  faith  is  done ! 
'Be  not  afraid,  only  believe,' 
And  all  My  grace  you  shall  receive. 

Just  open  wide  to  Me  your  heart, 
I  '11  bid  each  rival  hence  depart, 
And  there  My  dwelling-place  shall  be, 
To  sup  with  you,  and  you  with  Me. 

Your  sinful  passions  I  '11  subdue, 
And  form  your  nature  all  anew : 
Will  fill  you  with  My  perfect  peace, 
My  /ore,  and  joy,  that  never  cense. 


186  TOEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

New  yield  yourself  to  My  control, 
I  '11  sanctify  and  keep  your  soul— 
And  make  you  humble,  docile,  mild, 
In  spirit  like  a  little  child. 

Say,  will  you  in  My  words  confdc  ? 
View  in  My  hands,  and  feet,  and  side, 
The  certain  pledges  that  I  '11  do, 
With  great  delight,  ALL  THIS  FOR  YOU  !' 

O  !  Lord,  I  yield— I  yield  to  Thee, 
My  Saviour  from  all  sin  to  be  : 
To  work  in  me,  by  Thy  rich  grace, 
The  heights  and  depths  of  HOLINESS. 


THE   DOLEFUL    CRY. 

Hark  !  hark  !  a  mournful  sound  I  hear, 

The  accents  of  distress  : 
Hark  !  hark  !  again  it  strikes  my  ear, 

In  language  most  express. 

Ah  !  'tis  the  doleful  cry  of  those 

In  distant  heathen  lands, 
Who  groan  beneath  their  heavy  woes, 

And  lift  imploring  hands. 

With  chains  of  Error  they  are  bound, 

In  Superstition's  cell : 
And  such  the  darkness  hov'ring  round, 

Their  mis'ries  none  can  tell. 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.      187 

Some  echoes,  faint,  from  Calvary, 

Have  wafted  to  their  shore  : 
Their  trust  in  idols,  vain  they  see, 

And  worship  them  no  more. 

And  feeling  they  are  now  undone, 

They  send  to  us  their  call  : 
"  Come  over,  0  !  come,  over,  come, 

And  help  us  from  this  thrall" 

O  !  who  will  hasten  to  assist  ? 

"  Here,  Lord,  am  I,  send  me  :  " 
And  wake  Thy  people  to  enlist, 

With  zeal  and  energy. 

Lord,  send  Thy  Gospel  far  and  wide, 

To  Earth's  remotest  coast  : 
Till  all  shall  own  Thee  for  their  Guide, 

And  join  Emanuel's  host. 


DIALOGUE— No   4. 

TEMPTATION. 

Joseph. 

I  have  been  somewhat  sad,  to-day — 
The  ichy  I  cannot  rightly  say  ; 
I  have  been  burdened  with  a  load, 
And  could  not  keep  my  thoughts  on  God. 

George. 

Ho  !  ho  !  ye  heavy  laden,  c^me, 
Roll  all  your  burdens  on  the   Son  : 


188      POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

He  cares  for  you,  He  knows  your  case, 
And  will  supply  all  needed  grace. 

To  Him  unbosom  all  your  heart, 
Tell  Him  each  grief  and  every  smart, 
Then  wait,  submissive  at  His  feet, 
Till  He  imparts  the  joy  you  seek. 


The  Devil  whispered  in  my  ear, 
"  Christ's  promises  do  not  appear 
To  be  fulfilled  upon  thy  heart — 
Where  is  the  joy  lie  should  impart  ?  " 

Dear  Saviour,  bid  my  heart  be  still, 
And  meekly  wait  Thy  sovereign  will  : 
Thou  art  not  slack,  Thy  word  is  true, 
Thou  surely  wilt  my  foes  subdue. 

George. 

Amen,  dear  Lord,  come  reign  within, 
In  each  temptation  save  from  sin  ; 
Increase  our  faith — increase  our  hope, 
Nor  let  us  in  the  darkness  grope. 


THE    PRINCE    OF    PEACE. 

When  Jesus  Emanuel  descended  to  Earth, 

Bright  Angels  celestial,  caroled  His  birth  ; 

The  angelic  choir  left  their  mansions  of  bliss, 

And  flew  to  proclaim  Him  the  blest  "Prince  of  Peace.' 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  189 

With  music  most  charming,  which  made  the  air  ring, 
Did  that  shining  legion,  their  peace-anthem  sing  ; 
In  heaven,  with  rapture,  the  tidings  were  heard, 
And  mortals  delighted  to  hear  the  glad  word. 

"All  glory  to  God!  'mong  the  highest  resound, 
That  for  guilty  rebels,  a  Saviour  is  found : 
Peace,  peace  upon  Earth,  and  good  will  to  mankind, 
Redemption  for  captives,  and  sight  for  the  blind." 

From  heaven  to  earth,  the  great  Peace-maker  came, 
To  treat  with  mankind,  in  King  SHADAIH'S  name ; 
And  journeyed  through  countries  and  towns  to  make 

known 
The  offers  of  peace,  from  the  King  on  His  throne. 

Reproaches,  and  hunger,  and  toils  He  endured ! 
Then  suffered,  and  died  e'er  our  peace  was  procured  ! ! 
He  signed  the  conditions,  and  sealed  with  His  blood, 
That  all  should  be  sure  on  the  part  of  our  God. 

And  when  from  the  grave  He  triumphant  arose, 
O'er  death,  hell,  and  Satan,  and  all  His  strong  foes: 
"Peace,  peace  to  you  all  /"  He  continued  to  cry — 
"Peace  to  you — Fear  not — IT  is  I — IT  is  I." 

Before  His  disciples  and  friends  He  would  leave, 
Lest  they  His  departure  should  overmuch  grieve  : 
"MY  Peace  I  leave  with  you — MY  Peace  I  do  give — 
MY  PEACE  shall  dwell  in  you  as  long  as  you  live. 

You  shall,  for  My  sake,  meet  with  scorn  and  contempt, 
Your  bodies  with  scourges  and  tortures  be  rent : 


190      TOEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

But  though  tribulations  should  greatly  increase, 
Be  still  of  good  cheer,  fcr  you  shall  have  MY  peace." 

And  when  the  time  came  for  our  Prince  to  depart, 
A  love,  strong  and  ardent,  still  burned  in  his  heart  : 
Nor  e'en  to  the  last,  did  his  tender  care  cease — 
He  called  them  together  and  blessed  them  with  Peace. 

"  And  having  made  Peace  through  the  blood  of  His  Cross." 
The  tempests  may  blow,  and  billows  may  toss  ; 
He  sits  on  His  throne,  now  encircled  with  light, 
DISPENSER  and  AUTHOR    of  Peace  in  full  right. 

As  "  COUNSELLOR,"  there  for  poor  sinners  He  stands, 
Presenting  His  temples,  pierced  feet,  side,  and  hands  : 
Nor  can  any  mortal,  the  least  peace  obtain, 
But  in  and  through  his  His  all-prevailing,  great  Name. 

And  now,  in  the   "  Gospel  of  peace,"  He  imparts 
Unspeakable  Peace  to  His  followers'  hearts  ; 
In  every  condition,  though  comforts  decrease, 
He  's  known  and  acknowledged  as  "  THE  PRINCE    OF 
PEACE." 

PENITENTIARY,  April  14,  1846. 


G    CLEF    LETTERS 

First  A  upon  the  second  space, 
And  ledger  line,  on  high  ; 

And  B  we  on  the  third  line  place, 
The  middle,  by  the  by. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  191 

Then  on  space  third  is  stationed  C, 

And  ledger  line  below : 
Upon  the  fourth  line  we  find  D, 

And  under  space,  you  know. 

On  space  the  fourth  we  look  for  E, 

And  on  the  first  line  too ; 
Then  on  the  fifth  line  F  we  see, 

And  on  first  space,  in  view. 

On  space  above  is  seated  G, 

And  line  just  over  F  ; 
Nor  let  it  once  forgotten  be, 

These  rules  are  for  G  clef. 


DIALOGUE— No.  5. 

AFRICA. 

Joseph. 

O  !  when,  dear  Brother,  shall  we  meet, 
And  all  the  joys  of  Love  repeat, 
Where  Nature  sheds  her  fragrance  sweet, 

In  Africa? 

The  Lore  of  Christ !  (O  !  boundless  theme  !) 
This,  from  our  souls  shall  ever  beam, 
With  this  our  hearts  shall  ever  teem, 

In  Africa. 

Though  far  from  home  and  kindred  dear, 
No  more  their  tender  words  to  hear, 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

The  Love  of  Christ  shall  still  be  near, 

In  Africa. 

What  earthly  hope  can  this  excel, 
That  Afric's  sons  shall  hear  us  tell 
How  Jesus  seeks  with  them  to  dwell, 

In  Africa  ? 

And  when,  beneath  some  balmy  shade, 
They  gather  round,  in  neat  parade, 
None  to  molest,  or  make  afraid, 

In  Africa. 

Then  will  we  tell  them  of  that  Love 
Which  pours  in  richness  from  above, 
On  all,  who  from  their  gods  remove, 

In  Africa. 

Methinks  I  hear  them  shout  with  joy, 
And  eagerly  their  hands  employ, 
Their  senseless  idols  to  destroy, 

In  Africa. 

Then,  all  their  superstition  gone, 
They  will  agree  to  act  as  one, 
To  build  a  house  to  God  alone, 

In  Africa. 

Each  to  his  neighbor  will  be  true, 
And  serve  the  Lord  with  fervor,  too — 
For  Christ  will  form  their  hearts  anew, 

Ir  Africa. 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.       193 

Our  Wives,  their  little  ones,  will  learn, 
From  infancy,  their  great  concern, 
That  good  from  bad  they  may  discern, 

In  Africa. 

Their  Mothers,  too,  our  Wives  will  show, 

How  all  their  follies  to  forego, 

That  all  may  then  their  virtue  know, 

In  Africa. 

We,  oftentimes,  with  one  accord, 
Will  meet  to  worship  God  the  Lord, 
And  feast  upon  His  holy  word, 

In  Africa. 

Thus,  like  one  family  we  '11  be, 

Living  in  peace  and  amity, 

And  praise  the  Lord  for  what  we  see 

Ix  AFKICA. 

George. 

My  soul  has  oft  compassion  felt 
For  those  who  long  in  gloom  have  dwelt, 
And  unto  senseless  idols  knelt, 

In  Africa. 

Long,  long  have  I  desired  to  go, 
The  way  of  Life  to  them  to  shoAv, 
That  all,  of  Jesus'  love  might  know, 

In  Africa 

How  hast  thou  been  oppressed  and  spoiled, 
And  midst  unnumbered  sorrows  toiled, 
10 


194  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

At  sound  of  which  our  hearts  recoiled, 

O,  Africa ! 

Thy  sons  and  daughters  from  thee  torn, 
Have  been  to  distant  countries  borne, 
In  deepest  agony  to  mourn, 

O,  Africa! 

The  Nations  round  did  zeal  display, 
To  bear  thy  gentle  sons  away, 
As  if  thou  wast  their  lawful  prey, 

O,  Africa! 

Alas  !  our  Nation,  deep  in  guilt, 
Has  rivers  of  thy  heart's  blood  spilt, 
And  with  thy  tears  her  temples  built, 

O,  Africa ! 

But  can  there  be  devised  a  way, 
By  which  we  can  thy  wrongs  repay, 
And  heal  thy  bleeding  wounds  ?     Say,  say, 

O,  Africa ! 

Our  fiendish  outrage  we  confess, 
Our  barb'rous  actions  numberless  ; 
Yet  can  we  not  thy  children  bless, 

O,  Africa? 

Africa 

Ye  Nations  of  the  Earth,  you  ne'er 
Can  heal  the  wounds  inflicted  here, 
Nor    wash  your  skirts  from  blood-stain  clear, 

Of  Africa. 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  195 

Yet  this  return  you  sure  can  give — 
Come  teach  us  how  our  souls  shall  live, 
And  we  will  freely  all  forgive, 

In  Africa.    ^>(J 

George. 

On  us  their  claims  are  strong  and  just, 
Nor  can  be  from  our  Nation  thrust, 
But  to  relieve  them,  go  we  must, 

To  Africa. 

They  ask,  and  God  requires  it  too, 
That  we  this  much  for  them  should  do, 
And  haste  to  spread  Salvation  through 

Ml  Africa. 

O  !  who  will  go  ?     O  !  who  will  go  ? 
Young  men  and  maidens,  don't  say  no, 
But  haste  to  save  from  endless  wo, 

Poor  Africa. 

Let  her  petitions  reach  your  heart, 
And  lead  you  speedily  to  start, 
The  richest  blessings  to  impart 

To  Africa. 

Think  how  you  have  by  her  been  blest, 
"With  dainties  fed,  and  richly  drest, 
The  earnings  of  the  poor  opprest, 

Of  Africa ! 

Think  how  they  've  suffered  for  your  sake, 
'Mid  groans  and  tears  and  labors  great ! 


196      POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

And  will  you  not  the  Gospel  take 

To  Africa? 

Dear  Brother,  should  the  Church  sit  still, 

If  it  may  be  our  Father's  will, 

We  'II  go,  with  Light  and  Truth  to  fill, 

Dark  Africa. 

We  've  suffered  here,  and  oh  !  how  sweet 
'T  will  be,  in  yonder  clime  to  meet, 

And  lead  the  Tribes  to  Jesus'  feet, 

Of  Africa! 

Upon  some  lofty  mountain  height, 

Or  plains  that  stretch  beyond  the  sight, 

We  '11  joy  to  labor  day  and  night, 

For  Africa. 

Or  sitting  by  some  crystal  stream, 

We  will  rehearse  Mount  Calvary's  scene, 

And  see  their  faces  gladness  beam, 

In  Africa. 

The  old  and  young  shall  shout  aloud, 
And  often  there  together  crowd, 

In  Temples  built  to  worship  God, 

In  Africa. 

O  !  vision  bright !  Lord,  let  us  fly, 
Together  there  to  live  and  die, 
That  then  our  lonts  for  help  may  cry, 

For  Africa. 

Come,  Saviour,  ope'  our  Prison  door, 
And  by  Thy  breezes  waft  us  o'er, 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.      197 

To  that  neglected,  bleeding  shore, 

To  Africa. 

Or  if  our  service  Thou  refuse, 

O  !  do  Thou  other  Laborers  choose, 

And  speed  them  with  the  joyful  news, 

To  AFRICA. 
PENITENTIARY,  April  1C,  1846. 


S  AN  CTIFI  CAT  ION  — PRAYER. 

O  !  come,  sweet  Jesus,  come, 

And  in  my  bosom  reign  : 
Bid  each  usurper  now  be  gone, 

And  Thy  own  right  maintain. 

O  !  bind  Thy  wayward  child 

Fast  to  Thy  sacred  feet ; 
And  purge  my  heart— by  sin  defiled, 

Yea,  sanctify  and  keep. 


Subdue  each  sinful  lust, 

And  check  each  vain  desire  : 

Teach  me  in  Thee  alone  to  trust, 
And  after  Thee  aspire. 


O  !  bring  me  "health  and  cure 
From  all  the  plague  of  sin  ; 

This  is  Thy  word  of  Promise  sure — 
Now,  Lord,  the  work  begin. 

Bring  every  power  and  thought 
Under  Thy  gentle  sway ; 


. 


198      POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

For  with  Tliy  precious  blood  I  'm  bought. 
And  Thee  I  will  obey. 

Thy  permanent  abode, 

O  !  come  and  make  with  me — 

And  lead  me  in  the  heavenly  road 
Of  holy  PURITY. 

From  Earth's  bewitching  snares, 
Secure  my  treach'rous  heart ; 

And  when  I  'm  tempted  unawares, 
Thy  saving  grace  impart. 

O  !  lift  my  soul  above 

The  vanities  of  Time, 
And  fill  it  with  Thy  "PERFECT  LOVE," 

That  every  grace  may  shine. 

Thy  words  of  Truth  reveal 
With  clearness,  to  my  mind, 

That  I  may  upward  press  with  zeal, 
And  leave  the  world  behind. 

Thy  Promises,  to  use 

Discreetly,  teach  me,  Lord — 

That  I  may  ne'er  Thy  grace  abuse, 
But  live  upon  Thy  word. 

My  enemies  subdue, 

And  plead  with  them  my  right ; 
In  mercy,  form  their  hearts  anew, 

And  bring  them  to  the  light. 
O  !  make  me  useful,  Lord, 

While  here  I  stay — and  then 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  199 

Receive  me  to  Thy  great  reward, 

For  Jesus'  sake — Amen. 
PENITENTIARY,  April  17,  1846. 


PRISONER'S  INQUIRY— ANSWERED 

Amid  so  many  cares, 

Temptations,  trials,  snares, 

How  can  a  Prisoner  find 

Peace  to  his  troubled  mind  ? 
There  is,  my  friend,  one  only  way — 
<£iT  Submit  to  God,  and  humbly  pray. 

But  oh !  my  sins  are  great, 

And  press  with  mountain  weight : 

With  all  my  crimes  in  view, 

What  can  a  Captive  do  ? 
-Repent — repent — God  will  forgive — 
O  !  turn  to  Him,  and  you  shall  live. 

There  are  so  many  here, 

Who  scoff,  and  laugh,  and  sneer 

At  Christians/  that  I  fear 

I  could  not  persevere. 
For  help,  then,  to  the  Saviour  cry, 
And  strength  He  '11  give  you  from  on  high. 

But  after  I  am  free, 

Will  it  not  easier  be 

My  evil  ways  to  mend, 

And  make  my  God  my  Friend  ? 


200  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Sir !  you  may  DIE — make  no  delay  : 
O  !  turn,  and  seek  the  Lord  TO-DAY. 

But  I  am  now  disgraced, 
And  ne'er  can  be  effaced 
The  black  and  odious  stain, 
That  rests  upon  my  name, 
Nay  !  turn  to  God,  with  all  your  soul — 
He  '11  pardon,  and  blot  out  the  whole. 

But  will  not  men  despise, 
And  count  me,  in  their  eyes, 
An  outcast,  vile  and  mean, 
Too  loathsome  to  be  seen  ? 
Fools  might — but  honest,  virtuous  men, 
Will  ne'er  a  penitent  contemn. 

If  now  from  sin  I  turn, 
And  every  evil  spurn — 
Do  only  what  is  just, 
And  place  in  God  my  trust — 
You  shall  be  happier  than  a  king, 
And  here  in  Prison,  joyful  sing. 

Well,  yield  to  God  I  must, 
And  place  in  Him  my  trust : 
Myself,  my  all,  I  give, 
To  serve  Him  while  I  live. 
Amen  !     Be  faithful  till  you  die, 
And  you  shall  reign  with  Him  on  high. 
APRIL  18,  1847. 


PRISONER'S    SONG. 

Now  I  'm  afflicted,  and  greatly  oppressed — 
Greatly  oppressed — greatly  oppressed ; 
But  I  '11  again  with  sweet  FREEDOM  be  blest — 

Freedom  be  blest — freedom  be  blest. 
Here  I  'm  surrounded  with  murmuring  and  strife- 
The  place,  with  evils  of  all  kinds,  is  rife, 
Which  almost  a  burden  and  grief  make  my  life — 
Grief  make  my  life— grief  make  my  life. 

These  sore  afflictions  will  all  have  an  end — 
All  have  an  end—  all  have  an  end. 

Pleasure  my  steps  shall  again  then  attend — 
Again  attend— again  attend. 

Sufferings  and  sorrows,  I  '11  bid  you  adieu  ; 

With  joy  and  transport,  when  parted  from  you, 

The  journey  of  life  I  will  steady  pursue — 
Steady  pursue,  steady  pursue. 

With  friends  and  kindred,  again  I '11  unite, 

Again  unite,  'gain  unite, 
And  in  their  presence  find  peace  and  delight : 

Peace  and  delight— peace  and  delight. 
The  sweet  will  be  sweeter  than  ever  before, 
And  I  shall  value  my  comforts  the  more, 
When  all  these  distresses  and  trials  are  o'er— 

Trials  are  are  o'er,  trials  are  o'er. 

Then  I'll  bear  patient  the  keen,  piercing  blast, 
Keen,  piercing  blast — keen,  piercing  blast, 
Though  now  it 's  greivous,  it  will  soon  be  past, 


202  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Will  soon  be  past,  will  soon  be  past. 
Speed  on  the  day — ye  slow  hours,  roll  along 
That  time,  when  I  to  myself  shall  belong  ; 
It  will — O  !  it  will,  yes,  it  WILL  come,  ere  long — 

Will  come  ere  long,  will  come  ere  long. 
PENITENTIARY,  APRIL,  1846. 


NUPTIAL    ADDRESS    TO    GOVERNOR 
EDWARDS. 

This  Address  and  Petition  was  occasioned  by  the  following 
circumstance.  Gov.  Edwards  made  a  journey  to  New  England, 
New-York,  Arc.,  in  the  Spring  of  1846.  The  Inspectors,  and 
other  citizens,  told  some  of  the  prisoners,  that  he  had  gone  to 
get  a  wife,  and  to  transact  some  business  for  the  Sate,  and 
would  return  in  two  or  three  months.  I  said  to  myself,  "  If  that 
is  the  case,  I  will  be  prepared,  when  he  returns  with  his  newly 
taken  wife,  to  make  an  irresistible  appeal  to  his  sympathies." — 
He  received  the  appeal  kindly,  but  answered,  "  I  am  sorry  to 
tell  you  I  am  not  married." 

All  joy  to  the  bride  and  the  bridegroom  of  State, 
May  peace,  love,  and  comfort,  and  happiness  great, 
With  all  the  pure  pleasures  of  husband  and  wife, 
Attend  you  in  every  condition  in  life. 

Exalted  a  Ruler  o'er  this  fruitful  land, 
May  God,  from  His  infinite  treasures,  command 
All  needed  assistance  to  rule  in  His  fear, 
To  punish  the  guilty,  the  innocent  clear. 

Sir,  may  your  "  vine"  nourish,  with  rich  fruit  abound, 
And  "  olive  plants  "  sprightly  your  table  surround,* 

*  Ps.  128:3. 


rOEMS    ON    VARIOUS     SUBJECTS.  20o 

To  rise  up  and  govern  the  land  in  your  stead, 
When  you  shall  lie  slumbering  in  dust:  with  the  dead. 

And  now,  since  the  heart  of  a  lover  you  know, 
You  surely  will  listen  to  my  notes  of  wo  ! 
Nor  from  my  sad  tale  with  indifference  turn, 
While  love  in  your  bosom,  so  warmly  doth  burn. 

Just  ask  your  companion  how  she  could  endure 
To  see  men  her  husband  in  prison  immure, 
And  many  long  years  be  shut  from  her  sight, 
Her  guide,  joy,  and  comfort — support  and  delight 

Ah !  ah !  Sir,  full  well  to  the  world  is  it  known, 
That  now  nearly  five  years  have  tardily  flown, 
While  I  have  been  severed  from  one,  dear  as  life — 
My  Friend  and  Companion — my  espoused  Wife! 

Through  all  these  long  years,  both  by  day  and  by  night, 
Her  eyes  raised  to  heaven,  with  watery  sight — 
Have  prayers,  for  "  the  Guide  of  her   youth,"*  to  the 

skies, 
With  sorrow  and  sighing  continued  to  rise. 

Joy,  joy  to  you,  Sir,  in  your  new,  happy  state, 
But  will  not  your  pity  within  you  awake, 
To  open  before  me,  my  prison  doors  wide, 
And  bid  me  to  hasten  and  comfort  my  bride  ? 

'T  is  not  for  the  pleasures  of  sense,  I  request, 
And  long  with  sweet  freedom  again  to  be  blest, 

*ProT.  2  :  17.     Jer.  3 :  4. 


20  I  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Nor  worldly  enjoyments  do  seek  for  myself, 
la  ease,  or  indulgence,  or  hoarding  up   pelf. 

But,  with  an  incessant  and  ardent  desire, 
Our  souls  do,  in  union,  sincerely  aspire, 
To  pp  where  the  light  of  the  Gospel  ne'er  shone, 
And  offers  of  mercy,  through  Jesus,  make  known. 

This,  this,  is  for  what  we  desire  to  live, 

To  this  blessed  work  all  our  efforts  to  give — • 

To  save  precious  souls  who  in  darkness  now  grope, 

And  bring  them  acquainted  with  Jesus,  our  Hope. 

Why  may  I  not  go,  Sir?     O,  pray  tell  me  why, 
Or  must  I  here  suffer,  and  languish,  and  die  ? 
Were  I  all  that  suffered,  I  'd  then  hold  my  peace, 
For  I  shall  soon  be  where  all  troubles  will  cease. 

My  mother  is  aged,  and  mourns  night  and  day, 
Beneath  this  affliction  is  pining  away  ; 
Ah  !  see  her,  by  trouble  forbidden  to  sleep, 
And  often  sit  weeping,  unable  to  eat. 

See  !  see  her,  as  sighing,  she  walks  the  house  round, 

Lamenting  her  son  with  a  dolorous  sound  ! 

O  !  do,  sir,  by  one  act,  my  mother's  life  save, 

Or  must  she  go  mourning  down,  down  to  the  grave  ? 

My  father,  with  sorrow,  almost  in  the  tomb, 
Still  lingers  a  little  to  see  me  come  home  ; 
How  oft,  to  the  West,  does  he  cast  His  dim  eye, 
If  happly  he  may,  me  returning,  espy. 

Their  faces  would  biighten,  like  Jacob's  of  old, 
Could  they  only  once  more  their  lost  son  behold, 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  205 

And  feel  that  he  lives  to  be  useful  below, 
While  they  to  their  rest  everlasting  shall  go. 

My  brothers  and  sisters  feel  deeply  the  smart, 
And  with  bitter  anguish  are  pierced  to  the  heart ; 
The  children  oft  asking,  with  tears  flowing  down, 
"  O,  mother,  when  will  they  let  uncle  come  home  V" 

Then,  kindred  more  distant,  a  numerous  throng, 
And  friends,  to  the  vast  crowd  of  mourners  belong : 
From  whom  earnest  cries  daily  rise  to  God's  throne, 
That    George,   through    your   clemency,   may  return 
home. 

And  ninny  poor  heathen,  who've  heard  of  my  name, 
Are  waiting  to  hear  me  the  gospel  proclaim, 
Without  which  they  sink  down  to  death  and  despair — 
O  !  that  I,  to  help  them,  could  thither  repair. 

In  view  of  the  many  afflicted  with  me, 
And  lifting  up  prayers  unto  heaven  for  thee  ; 
In  view  of  the  years  I  in  suffering  have  spent, 
O  !  may  not  my  pardon  be  speedily  sent  ? 

All  these,  honored  Sir,  and  ten  thousand  more, 
Both  now,  and  when  these  shall  be  called  days  of  yore, 
Will  rise  up  with  gladness  to  bless  you  aloud, 
For  cheering  so  many  with  deep  sorrows  bowed. 

My  partners,  who  with  me  came  on  the  same  charge, 
Have   long  since,  with   transport,   received  their  dis 

charge, 

But  what  have  I  done,  Sir?  O,  tell  me,  I  pray, 
That  I  should  remain  so  much  longer  than  they  ? 


206  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Alt  were  alike  guilty — the  crime  was  the  same — 
And  all  came  here  bearing  the  same  odious  name  ; 
All  promised,  when  taking  a  faithful  review, 
We  would  not,  hereafter,  in  like  manner  do.* 

Though  yet  I  've  not  numbered  in  years  twenty-nine, 
E'en  now  with  white  blossoms  my  young  head  doth  shine, 
The  premature  fruits  of  my  long  suffering  here, 
My  incessant  toiling,  heart-sorrow  and  fear. 

But  as  to  great  learning  I  do  not  pretend — 
I  '11  now  bring  my  feeble  attempt  to  an  end, 
Though  reasans  and  words  I  might  still  multiply — 
You  will  not  require  it,  I  '11  therefore  not  try. 

Joy,  Jo?/,  to  you,  once  more  permit  me  to  shout  : 
Joy,  joy,  through  all  changes  that  may  come  about  ; 
And  O !  with  your  servant  do  not  angry  be, 
If  once  more  I  beg  you,  "Have  mercy  on  me." 


ADDRESS  TO  MI SSDIX. 

On  the  14th  of  May,  1846,  the  celebrated  Miss  Dix  visited  our 
Prison,  conversed  with  the  officers,  inspected  the  Prison,  and 
conversed  with  prisoners  about  their  treatment  and  circumstan 
ces.  Expecting  to  see  her  the  next  day,  I  wrote  for  her  the  fol 
lowing,  but  did  not  have  an  opportunity  to  give  it  to  her. 

Bright  Angel  of  Mercy,  in  pure  virtue  drest, 
By  whose  deeds  of  pi'y  the  prisoner  is  blest, 
Before  whose  appearance  fly  gloom  and  despair, 
While  blessings,  more  numerous,  the  suffering  share: 

All  joy  and  success  in  your  labor  of  love, 
(O  !  Spirit  Divine,  give  her  help  from  above,) 

*That  is,  we  would  not  go  into  a  Slave  State,  to  help  away 
slaves. 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.      207 

Compassion  for  captives  in  all  hearts  to  wake, 
Their  heart-breaking  sorrows  to  alleviate. 

Haste,  haste  through  the  land,   like  good  Howard   of 

yore, 

Each  prison,  each  cell,  and  each  dungeon  explore  ; 
Seek  out  all  the  victims  of  crime  and  distress, 
And  thousands  your  name  and  your  inem'ry  will  bless. 

Probe  deep  all  their  sorrows — find  out  every  grief — 
Bind  up  broken  hearts,  and  impart  such  relief, 
As  all  the  rich  words  of  the  Gospel  afford 
To  penitent  sinners  who  trust  in  the  Lord. 

Shrink  not  from  the  scenes  so  revolting  to  sight, 
Which  investigation  will  bring  to  the  light  ; 
Stoop  down  and  give  ear  to  their  sad  tales  of  wo, 
That  thus  what  is  needed  you  clearly  may  know. 

Call  loudly  on  Churches,  the  Nation  arouse, 
Your  work  of  humanity  warmly  t'  espouse  : 
Nor  cease  from  your  efforts,  the  dying  to  save, 
Till  nature  shall  fail,  and  you  sink  in  the  grave. 

How  glorious  your  object !  how  noble  the  work  ! 
Your  powers  of  body  and  mind,  all  exert  ; 
Souls,  souls  shall  be  saved  from  sin,  death,  and  hell, 
The  praises  of  Jesus  forever  to  swell. 

The  hearts  of  poor  prisoners  here  you  have  cheered, 
To  thousands,  the  name  of  "  Miss  Dix  "  is  endeared ; 
Great,  great  your  reward,  when  the  just  shall  arise, 
To  meet  our  King  Jesus,  descending  the  skies. 


TO  MRS.  EUNICE  CLARY— ON  THE 
DEATH  OF  ISAAC. 

Thou  "Mother  in  Israel,"  weep  not  for  your  dead, 
Though  deep  in  the  dust  of  the  earth  is  their  bed  : 
Think  not  that  they  're  lost,  you  shall  meet  them  again, 
Where  sorrow  ne'er  enters,  nor  sickness,  nor  pain. 

They  'vo  only  gone  home — should  you  murmur  at  this  ? 
Or  would  you  recall  them  from  those  seats  of  bliss, 
Where  unalloyed  pleasures  forever  do  roll, 
And  smiles  of  the  Saviour,  enrapture  each  soul  ? 

Ili-all  them!  no,  no!  you  have  no  such  desire, 
But  with  ardent  longings  your  soul  doth  aspire, 
To  mount  up  and  join  them  before  the  White  Throne, 
And  dwell  there  in  union  with  Jesus,  at  home. 

Sing  on,  then,  dear  brother — your  mother  says,  sing — 
Sing  loud  allcluiahs  to  Heaven's  great  King ! 
We'll  all  come  and  join  you,  when  pass  a  few  days, 
Our  God  and  Redeemer  forever  to  praise. 

To  be  very  useful,  his  prospects  were  bright — 
But,  mother,  who  took  him  away  from  your  sight? 
"  The  Lord  of  the  Vineyard  !  "  and  who  knows  as  He. 
In  what  part  His  servants  can  most  useful  be  ? 

He 's  wise,  kind,  and  good,  high  exalted  above, 
And  metes  out  afflictions  in  infinite  love. 
Low,  low  at  His  feet,  all-submissive,  resigned, 
May  we,  in  His  pleasure,  our  happiness  find. 


THE  DYING  S  AINT-  (Miss  M.  F.) 

Come  ye  who  love  the  Saviour  dear, 
Shed  not  for  me  that  bitter  tear : 
I'm  going  to  His  lovely  arms — 
Pray,  what  is  this  your  soul  alarms  V 

O  !  do  not  weep,  it  grieves  my  heart 
To  see  you  loth  with  me  to  part : 
It  is  our  ELDER  BROTHER'S  voice, 
Come,  let  your  hearts  with  mine  rejoice. 

Would  you  my  spirit  still  retain, 
In  this  dark  world  of  sin  and  pain  ; 
When  Jesus  now  doth  me  invite, 
To  come  and  walk  with  Him  in  white  ? 

Come,  come,  dry  up  those  weeping  eyes — 
The  Heavenly  Convoy,  from  the  skies, 
Are  now  descending  to  convey 
Me  to  the  realms  of  endless  day. 

Sing  me,  once  more,  that  precious  song,* 
For  here  I  cannot  linger  long  ; 
Let  every  heart  and  voice  unite, 
To  poise  my  spirit  for  its  flight. 

We  soon  shall  meet  in  realms  above, 
And  join  to  sing  "Redeeming  love," 
With  harps  and  voices  tuned  higher, 
Than  thoughts  of  mortals  can  aspire. 


*  The  hymn,  "All 


210  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

Now,  when  my  face  you  see  no  more, 
My  absence,  short,  do  not  deplore  : 
You  '11  follow  soon — rejoice  and  sing, 
"The  King  of  Terrors  has  no  sting." 

O  !  glory,  glory,  there  they  come  ! 
Farewell,  dear  friends,  I  'm  going  Home  : 
My  heart-strings  break— my  raptures  swell- 
Farewell,  beloved — a  short  FAREWELL. 
MAY  26,  1846. 


DEATH    OF    A    PAIR    OF    TWINS 

Two  spirits  from  the  gracious  hand 
Of  Him  who  governs  sea  and  land. 

From  heaven  to  earth  were  sent ; 
They  were  His  own,  by  sovereign  right, 
But  for  sweet  comfort  and  delight, 

Were  to  fond  Parents  lent. 

They  came  and  looked  on  Earth  awhile — 
The  Mother  took  them,  with  a  smile, 

And  clasped  them  to  her  breast : 
"Now,  now,  for  many  days,"  (thought  she,) 
"I  shall,  with  them,  most  happy  be, 

And  all  will  call  me  blest." 


But  ah  !  how  soon  her  heart  was  stun< 

And  with  the  keenest  anguish  wrung, 

While  she  was  left  to  mourn  ; 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.      211 

The  objects  of  her  fond  delight 
Were  quickly  taken  from  her  sight, 
And  from  her  bosom  torn  ! 

They  listened  to  our  notes  of  wo — 
Saw  griefs  and  sufferings  here  below, 

Distress  and  misery  : 

Heard  Captives  groan  from  every  shore — 
The  Nations'  rage— the  cannons'  roar, 

And  shouts  of  victory  ! 

Disgusted  with  the  scenes  of  Earth, 
Our  joys,  and  momentary  mirth, 

They  turned  away,  and  sighed  ; 
They  heard  the  Angels  sweetly  sing, 
And  longed,  with  them,  to  praiso  their  King — 

Looked  upward — gasped — and  died  ! 

"The  Lord  did  give,  and  take  the  same, 
And  blessed  be  His  holy  name" — 

Ye  parents,  sound  it  loud  : 
Low,  at  His  feet,  submissive  sit — 
Yoursel  ves,  your  all,  to  Him  commit, 

And  know  that  He  is  GOD. 
PENITENTIARY,  May  26,  184G. 


DEATH     OF    CHARLES    T.    TO  11  KEY 

Wny  did  they  thrust  within  those  massive  walls, 
And  long,  that  man  of  God,  incarcerate  ? 
Beyond  the  reach  of  gentle  Mercy's  calls, 


212      POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS. 

Which  plead  in  vain  his  sentence  to  abate — 
Where  griefs  and  sufferings  in  all  forms  abound, 
And  mortal  sorrow,  of  all  kinds,  is  found. 

What  was  his  crirnet     If  any  man  can  tell, 
That  he  should  from  his  family  be  torn, 
And  bound  within  a  gloomy  Prison  cell, 
Oppressed,  forsaken,  destitute,  forlorn. 
The  answer  is  at  hand— attend  and  hear, 
Nor  blush  to  drop  the  sympathising  tear. 

He  was  a  man  of  philanthropic  soul — 
Love,  ardent  love,  to  ALL  MANKIND,  he  felt — 
Wherever  found,  from  North  to  Southern  Pole, 
His  heart,  with  pity,  for  their  woes  did  melt ; 
And  anxious  longings  filled  his  generous  mind, 
Some  active  mode  for  their  relief  to  find. 

He  wept  and  sighed— He  pitied,  prayed,  and  wept 

O'er  suffering  millions,  in  our  guilty  land, 

Who,  in  the  dark,  by  Legislation  (!)  kept, 

Are    crushed    and  ground   beneath   the   Oppressor's 

hand — 

While  deeds  of  outrage  are  continually  done, 
Which  well  might  put  to  blush  the  glowing  Sun  ! 

Tie  cried  to  God,  and  loudly  called  on  man — 
Rehearsed  the  sorrows  of  the  poor  opprest — 
From  house  to  house,  and  publicly,  the  plan 
Made  known,  by  which  the  suff 'rers  might  be  blest. 
'Twas  chiefly  this— "By  moral  means,  induce 
Each  State,  by  Law,  the  FETTERS  TO  UNLOOSE." 


POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS.  213 

This — THIS  !  Americans,  was  his  great  crime  ! 

(At  times,  he  whispered  in  a  brother's  ear, 

And  pointed  Northward  to  Britannia's  line, 

Where  Freedom's  boon  his  aching  heart  might  cheer.) 

For  THIS,  they  seized,  mock-tried,  condemned,  and  cast 

Him  in  the  Felon's  dungeon,  to  the  last ! !  ! 

There,  there  for  eighteen  mournful  months  he  groaned ; 
He  wept  and  sighed— excessive  toiled  and  bled, 
While  friends  and  kindred,  his  sad  state  bemoaned, 
And  gladly  would  have  suffered  in  his  stead. 
But  no — they  could  not  give  him  e'en  his  food, 
Nor  other  things,  in  need  of  which  he  stood. 

Debarred  from  God's  own  house,  he  loved  so  dear — 

Shut  out  from  Christian  fellowship,  so  sweet — 

No  voice  of  pity  sounded  in  his  ear, 

Nor  looks  of  sympathy  his  eyes  did  meet ; 

But  walls,  and  grates,  and  cells,  and  iron  doors, 

And  whips,  and  chains,  and  fellow  suff 'rers'  roars ! 

Contempt,  reproach,  and  scandal,  scorn  and  shame, 
("Thief  !  Traitor !  Villain  !  Worse  than  murderer,") 
Were  vilely  heaped  upon  his  worthy  name, 
Because  he  would  not  with  their  sin  concur  ; 
But  ways  of  Justice,  Truth  and  Mercy  choose, 
Though  he  should,  for  it,  his  own  freedom  lose. 

But  soon  his  crushed  and  wearied  nature  failed — 
The  strong  foundations  of  his  frame  gave  way ; 
Disease  his  fragile  tenement  assailed, 
And  claimed  his  body  as  its  lawful  prey. 


214  POEMS    ON    VARIOUS    SUBJECTS. 

"Sick  and  in  prison"— far  from  friends  and  home, 
He  suffered,  pined  and  languished  there  alone. 

His  friends  around  ceased  not  to  intercede 

With  him  who  governed  o'er  a  blood-stained  State — 

His  Consort  plead — his  children,  too,  did  plead, 

That  they  might  only  be  allowed  to  take 

Their  dying  father  to  his  own  abode, 

To  breathe,  'mid  friends,  his  last,  and  go  to  God. 

But  no  !  e'en  this  petition  was  denied ! 
So  small— so  just— so  safe— and  yet  so  kind ! ! 
In  Prison,  and  'mid  enemieshe,  DIED — 
The  sufferer's  friend — an  honor  to  mankind. 
May  God  his  widow  and  his  fatherless, 
Defend,  and  with  all  needed  comforts  bless. 

Our  Brother  died— but 't  was  the  VICTOR'S  death, 

Who,  in  his  fall,  his  greatest  conquest  won  ; 

And  more  accomplished  with  his  dying  breath, 

Than  he,  in  all  his  life  before,  had  done — 

The  shock  was  felt  throughout  th'  Oppressor's  camp, 

It  cooled  their  zeal,  and  did  their  courage  damp. 

Though  here  despised  by  men,  and  deemed  unfit 
The  precious  boon  of  Freedom  to  enjoy ; 
Far,  far  beyond  their  rage,  he  now  doth  sit, 
Where  proud  Oppressors  never  more  annoy : 
Enjoying  there  his  "jF/bme"  of  which  he  wrote, 
And  for  his  own,  and  others'  comfort  spoke. 

Rage  on,  ye  haughty  Tyrants  of  our  land ! 
Crush  down  the  poor  and  needy  in  the  dust — 


POEMS  ON  VARIOUS  SUBJECTS.      215 

But  Jenoiv  the  day  of  vengeance  is  at  hand, 
When  you  shall  feel  the  Almighty's  withering  thrust, 
In  untold  depths  of  wo,  to  sink  you  down, 
While  bright  shall  shine  the  objects  of  your  frown! 
MISSOURI  PENITENTIARY,  June  5th,  1846. 


NOTE. 

On  June  24th,  I  was  released,  by  the  Governor,  after  suffering 
and  toiling  for  the  Slave,  4  years,  11  months,  and  12  days. 

"The  Lord  hath  done  great  things  for  me,  whereof  I  am 
glad." 

"0,  magnify  the  Lord  with  me,  and  let  us  exalt  His  name  to 
gether." 

Reader,  may  the  Lord  sanctify  thy  soul— make  tliee  useful 
here,  and  save  thee,  in  His  kingdom,  throxigh  Jesus  Christ. — 
Amen. 


THE  END. 


14  DAY  USE 

:ETURN  TO  DESK  FROM  WHICH  BORROWED 

LOAN  DEPT. 

This  book  is  due  on  the  last  date  stamped  below 
or  on  *e  da.e  „,*£  ,„  ' 


on*: 


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LD21A-607n-8,'70 
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University  of  Californii 

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